Exploring barriers to the implementation of city development strategies (CDS) in Iranian cities : A qualitative debate

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to explore the barriers to the implementation of city development strategy (CDS) to achieve the goals in Iranian cities which have experienced rapid uncontrolled growth in recent decades. As comprehensive planning method has failed to tackle the challenges facing the cities, various recommendations have been made to employ the CDS as a successful method based on strategic urban planning to develop Iranian cities. Design/methodology/approach – This study is qualitatively conducted based on the primary and secondary data in which the primary data were obtained from 11 semi-structured interviews, while the secondary data were collected through a review of international theoretical studies, Iranian experimental research and reports. Findings – The findings of this study indicate five major barriers to the implementation of the Iranian urban planning process based on the CDS. These comprise the centralization of urban planning structure, coordination and relationship of agencies, financial resources, related laws and regulations and public participation. Originality/value – This study develops a compelling argument that what is missing from research on CDS is an examination of the potential barriers of CDS implementation, particularly in Iranian cities.