Urban product in view of the commercial activities in Algiers

Abstract

In recent decades, Algiers has undergone significant urban transformation, marked by new urban extensions and spatial restructurings. Concurrently, commercial polarization has become widespread, leading to profound changes in urban structures, particularly evident in municipalities in the eastern part. These areas have shifted from primarily residential and agricultural to centres of significant commercial activity. This research aims to examine the influence of commercial activities on Algiers' urban structure, as they are seen as growth poles shaping urban organization. The study also analyses their quantitative and spatial dimensions, shedding light on resulting urban problems. To achieve these objectives, a descriptive approach was used to identify factors driving the concentration of commercial activities in three municipalities. Quantitative analysis utilized data from the National Trade Register Centre. Field surveys of commercial activities in markets were conducted, and geographic information systems were used to demonstrate spatial changes, focusing on residential neighbourhoods with overlapping commercial activities. Findings indicate that commercial activities have contributed to residential growth and, at times, the spread of illegal housing, resulting in a 43.01% loss of agricultural land between 2000 and 2020. Consequently, local authorities are striving to regulate anarchic free trade to preserve designated urban areas outlined in Algiers' urbanization plan for future organized urban uses.

Keywords

• algiers
• urban product
• organized commercial activities
• housing function
• urban development