Tenth International Conference on The Constructed Environment

Abstract

Scholars of urban studies generally agree on changing use of public space as a result of changes in society. This study interrogates the specific links between indices of social change and the transforming utilization of public parks in Makurdi. A total sample of public parks in Makurdi was purposively chosen while the Taro Yamane formula was used to obtain from the 1991 population census figure for Makurdi a sample size of 400 respondents. Temporal scope of 1976-2018 was adopted to interrogate variation over time, the population sample size was then disaggregated based on age (<60 years old and >60 years old) to a ratio of 7: 1. Using the instrument of questionnaires and observation respondents aged <60 years old provided information on past use of public parks and past social indices while respondents aged > 60 years old provided information on current park use and social indices. Statistical tools of MANOVA and multiple regression were used to test the variation over time and relationships. Findings showed a significant variation in the use of parks during the study period in terms of abandonment (9.8%) and segregation (4.5%) but no variation in contests. The results showed a significant relationship between factors of social change and the changing nature of use in parks. Demography, economy, and education independently and jointly contributed to change in the use of public parks. The study recommended a revitalization of existing parks; the design of these parks should incorporate public participation and inputs from other allied professionals.