Improving urban park usability in developing countries: Case study of Al-Shalalat Park in Alexandria

Abstract

Historically, public urban park was designed to provide large open green spaces inside the city that can help in minimizing the negative impact of industrialization. Recently, most of the developed countries in the world have recognized the importance of multi-functional use of public parks in the sustainable development of cities. However, there are many public parks that already exist in developing countries but suffer from abandoned or underutilization due to the lack of public awareness, poor maintenance, lack of security and adequate facilities, as well as, lack of sports and social activities. The aim of the study is to assess the factors needed to improve park usability and analyze the factors influencing use of public parks in Egypt as an example of developing countries. Al-Shalalat Park situated in the centre of Alexandria city is used as a site study. A questionnaire regarding park visitors and Alexandrian citizen needs and preferences for public park usability have been made on 150 of local Alexandrian community from different ages and social backgrounds. Finally, the research suggests a design proposal for the revitalization of Al-Shalalat Park based on the results from the questionnaire. Keywords: Public park, Users needs, Park usability, Sustainable revitalization