Urban Environmental Value and the Challenges of Neglected Green Spaces in Owerri Urban, Nigeria

The pressure of urban expansion in Owerri urban has several negative impacts on the built environment. One of such impacts is the effect on the designated green spaces structured into the urban planning schemes of the layouts. The green spaces in layouts in Owerri urban were created through structured planning schemes to contribute benefits to the quality of urban lives of the residents. However, it has been observed that these spaces have become neglected and different types of activities within them rather contribute to the reduction of the environmental value of the urban area. This research investigates the factors that contribute to this reduction of environmental value in the layouts in Owerri urban. The research method used was survey research with questionnaire administered on residents of selected layouts in Owerri. Obtained data was analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis tools. Findings reveal that air pollution is generated by activities in these neglected green spaces such as indiscriminate dumping of refuse, informal trading and industrial activities and power generating sets. These activities have their attendant negative impacts on the built environment and lives of the urban residents. It is recommended that these activities be removed from these green spaces in order to restore the positive contributions of these green spaces and the quality of life of the urban dwellers.