Pathways to Urban Parks Functionality Enhancement: Lessons from Gugu Dlamini Park

Mndzebele, Mhlalisi Gavu and Gumbo, Trynos and Nkere, George and Popoola, Ayobami (2023) Pathways to Urban Parks Functionality Enhancement: Lessons from Gugu Dlamini Park. LET IT GROW, LET US PLAN, LET IT GROW. Nature-based Solutions for Sustainable Resilient Smart Green and Blue Cities. Proceedings of REAL CORP 2023, 28th International Conference on Urban Development, Regional Planning and Information Society. pp. 613-619. ISSN 2521-3938

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Abstract

Urban parks are a crucial component of the city fabric but their intended use is overlooked by informalities and activities that distort the user’s positive experience. South Africa has been investing massively in urban parks to improve the fabric of cities. However, the approaches to enhancing the functionality of urban parks have not yet been studied and documented convincingly, particularly in most urban areas. Consequently, this paper highlights the pathways to enhance the effective use of urban parks, specifically focusing on Gugu Dlamini Park, eThekwini Municipality. The study adopted a case study research design and applied a qualitative approach to gather relevant data on the current use of urban parks. Specifically, data was collected using geo-spatial mapping, in-depth interviews, and observation schedules. The paper reveals that the elements such as safety and placement affect park users, mainly due to poor management and enforcement. The paper recommends the incorporation of urban parks within government and municipal strategic goals. There is also a need to integrate informal trading into formal spaces in urban parks. In conclusion, the paper recommends that to achieve effective utilization of urban parks they must be inclusive and vibrant. The enhancement of urban park functionality fits well into the broader phenomena of the current use of parks in urban areas.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Urban Parks, Urban Green Spaces, Placement, Public Spaces, Informality
Subjects:	G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GE Environmental Sciences H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor H Social Sciences > HM Sociology
Depositing User:	REAL CORP Administrator
Date Deposited:	03 Oct 2023 13:53
Last Modified:	04 Oct 2023 17:37
URI:	http://repository.corp.at/id/eprint/1023

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