الفهرس | Only 14 pages are availabe for public view |
Abstract This research examines the relationship between urban parks and the quality of life (QoL). It aims at investigating both positive and negative impacts of urban parks on the quality of life of the city dwellers. To fulfill this aim, a theoretical framework is produced encompassing design and management criteria covering social, environmental, and economic goals. Afterwards, four case studies (El Azhar Park, El Dowlia Park, El Thakfia Park, and Rod El Farag Park) are chosen to test the theoretical framework in the Egyptian context . The results indicate that the current provision of local parks (with one function) is under-utilized and unable to attract and satisfy local dwellers. Design and management problems make of those parks a burden for the city economy. However, the research finds that regional park performance is better in providing significant QoL variables to the park users and the non-users in the adjacent neighbourhoods. Moreover, disparities are found among the perceptions of low, medium and high income users towards what affect the quality of their lives and what their preferences and priorities are. The research is concluded with recommendations regarding the planning, designing and managing guidelines for urban parks in Cairo city, with respect to the park accessibility (level of service) and the target users’ socio-economic classes. Local recommendations targeting case studies to improve their efficiency and future research topics are suggested. |