Enhancing Urban Environmental Quality Through The Restoration Of The Neglected Green Spaces In Aladinma Estate In Owerri Urban

Abstract

A well-balanced urban environment can enhance living conditions and the quality of life of urban residents. This is because the state of the urban environment affects the urban environmental quality. The pressures of urban life in some developing countries often make it difficult for the residents to take care of the environment. Also, urban schemes and developments in the urban areas have created a high concentration of urban residents and consequently the improper use and neglect of green spaces. Some of them have become refuse dump sites and places for other undesirable activities such as petty trading and activities of roadside tradesmen. These green spaces within neighbourhoods and layouts were created by Planning Authorities in order to enhance the urban environmental quality, but they have become neglected, misused and therefore, negate the urban environment. The study set out to investigate the conditions of the neglected green spaces in Aladinma housing estate, Owerri, Nigeria. The study was a survey research using questionnaires administered on residents of some selected layouts in Owerri including Aladinma estate. Obtained data was analysed using the Chi square statistical tools. Findings reveal that the poor condition of these spaces is due to undesirable human activities. These spaces could become well-functioning green spaces, if the activities that negate them are removed, thereby improving the quality of urban life in these layouts.