USERS’ PERCEPTION OF URBAN PARKS AND GREEN NETWORKS IN IBADAN

Abstract

The appearance and outlook of a city are defined by many spatial elements. Urban gardens form an integral component of such spatial elements. Urban gardens help provide a framework on which eco-friendly environment and sustainable development lies. The aesthetic, air quality purification and therapeutic benefits that these gardens provide cannot be over-emphasized. However, many of these gardens lack the infrastructure that could make them function and meet international standards. The aim of this study is to examine the users’ perception of urban parks and green network in Ibadan. The specific objectives are to: investigate the various factors that determine the outlook of urban gardens; map out the locations of the urban gardens; appraise the current condition of the gardens and green infrastructure; and recommend appropriate measures for mitigating the current challenges affecting the identified gardens and parks. Data was gathered through the random sampling of 189 questionnaires. Geospatial analysis was used to map out the various locations of the existing gardens, and it revealed that the gardens are clustered along some local government areas. From the study, 52.4% of the respondents argued that some of the urban gardens lack complementary facilities or are in poor states. In view of the identified challenges, and the potentials of urban gardens improve the Ibadan cityscape, it is imperative for city planners, urban managers, and public authorities to commence a process of revitalizing the existing urban gardens and also establish a new garden with a view toward exploring its economic and ecological benefits.