Socio-Economic Analysis of the Renovation and Improvement Plan of Urban Texture Surrounding Razavi Holy Shrine

The renovation and improvement plan for the urban texture surrounding the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza was initiated to reduce increasing density and urban pressures. This plan aims to achieve a stable balance and alleviate various pressures associated with the city center by pursuing qualitative transformation and optimizing contemporary architectural principles. The implementation of this plan has led to significant socio-economic changes in the Samen region, Mashhad, Iran. This descriptive-analytical research focuses on the socio-economic analysis of the aforementioned plan. Data and information were collected in two stages through library research, field studies, interviews, and questionnaires. In the first stage, the residents of Samen district constituted the statistical population. Sampling was conducted using a random method until theoretical saturation was reached. In the second stage, a questionnaire was developed based on identified factors, and experts from the municipality of Samen region assigned weights to these factors based on their importance. The SWOT Method was employed to analyze the findings, to identify advantages and disadvantages, and to evaluate potential obstacles and limitations hindering urban development. The method provides insights and proposes solutions to execute the plan with minimal complications. The results indicate a decrease in residential units, an increase in rental units, and growing dissatisfaction among residents and property owners due to the changes in living conditions and the relocation process. Based on the final scores of internal and external factors, an offensive strategy is recommended. Finally, suggestions are presented to mitigate the negative effects of the renovation plan and enhance the urban fabric.