ABSTRACT
The appearance and outlook of a place is defined by many spatial elements. Open spaces, parks and recreational centres are perceived as an integral component of such spatial elements. Open spaces, gardens, parks and recreational canters help provide a framework on which eco-friendly environment and sustainable development lies. Business opportunity, employment, and revenue generation, the aesthetic and air quality purification benefits that these parks provide cannot be over-emphasized. However, many of these parks lack the infrastructure that could make them function and meet international standards. The aim of this study is to examine the socioeconomic impact of parks and recreational canters in Benin-City, Edo State, Nigeria. The specific objectives are to: locate the various sampled parks and recreational canters in Benin-City. Understand the level in which government has contributed in the development of parks in Benin-City. Examine the level of patronage attracted by the sampled parks and recreational canters in Benin-City. Examine the current conditions of the sampled parks in Benin-City and finally examine the socioeconomic impact of these sampled parks and recreational canters on the economy of Benin-City. To achieve this, six Parks were selected and sampled (purposive sample) due to the presence of few Parks in Benin-City. Among the sampled parks include Naomi Garden, Ramat Park, Ekae Amusement Park, National Museum, Oba Akenzua Cultural Canter and Ogba Zoo Nature Park. Structured questionnaires, interview and personal observation were both adopted in gathering data necessary for this research. 20 copies of questionnaire were administered to each sampled park then making it a total number of 120 copies of questionnaire to all the sampled parks. From the study, the entire administered questionnaire were duely completed and returned; (19.7%) of the respondents argued that some of the parks have been abandoned while (18.1%) of the respondents argued that poor maintenance of the parks have resulted to low patronage thereby affecting the economy of Benin-City. In view of this and others identified challenges, and the potentials of parks to improve the Benin cityscape, it is imperative for city planners, urban managers, and public authorities to commence a process of revitalizing the existing parks and also establish new parks with a view toward exploring its social and economic benefits.
