CHANGES IN THE IDENTITY OF A TOWN CENTRE: A CASE STUDY OF AL-KHOMS CITY, LIBYA

Abstract

This study aims to study the changes in the identity of the town centre in Al-Khoms Libya. According to Lynch (1982) identity combines both similarity and difference, creates a sense of distinctness an individual, group or society identifies his or herself with. Identity is also used to differentiate themselves from others. In this study, the researcher will examine the uniqueness of the features and qualities which the residents link to the identity of the town centre. The first objective of the study is to study the qualities of the elements that residents associate with the identity of Al-Khoms city. Secondly, the difference in the perception of the residents pertaining to elements and qualities which are linked to the identity of different sectors of Al-Khoms city will be examined. Thirdly, the research will identify main features that have an influence on the identity of the town. Lastly, this study will also identify the qualitative attributes of elements linked with the identity of Al-Khoms. Al-Khoms city was selected for this case study since it is an ideal example of an urban settlement in Libya with rich historical and cultural heritage. The location of Al-Khoms is well known and the historical centre of the Al-Khoms is the old section of the city whereby most of the buildings and urban forms which illustrates the social and physical features of the present and past lifestyle in Libya give a sense of identity.  The research adopts mixed methodologies or triangulation method which utilises both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection and analysis. The quantitative approach involves the collection of data through the distribution of questionnaires to a sample of the residents in the town centre. SPSS, AMOS is used to process the data and descriptive statistics mainly frequency and percentage are used to analyse the data. The qualitative method involves focused interview, photo recognition interview, sketch map task and visual survey which includes recording and field observations.

Keywords: Changing Identity, Image, Physical Features, Qualities, Sense Of Place, Town Centre