Comparative Analysis of Green Space Accessibility in Urban and Suburban Areas

Thesis Abstract

The equitable distribution and accessibility of green spaces significantly influence the physical, mental, and social well-being of urban and suburban populations, yet disparities persist across different settlement types, prompting a need for comprehensive comparative analysis. This study aims to examine the accessibility of green spaces in urban and suburban areas, focusing on identifying spatial, socioeconomic, and infrastructural factors that influence residents’ access and utilization. The specific objectives include quantifying the level of green space accessibility in selected urban and suburban neighborhoods, analyzing the spatial distribution patterns, and evaluating the socio-economic determinants impacting accessibility. The study employs a cross-sectional research design grounded in the theoretical frameworks of the Theory of Planar Space and the Social Equity Theory, facilitating an understanding of spatial justice and equitable access to environmental assets. The population consists of residents within three urban and three suburban neighborhoods in a metropolitan city, totaling approximately 15,000 households. A stratified random sampling technique was employed to select 600 households, ensuring representation across socio-economic strata. Data collection utilized structured questionnaires to gauge residents’ perceptions of green space accessibility, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for spatial mapping of green spaces, and observational audits to assess infrastructural conditions. The validity and reliability of the survey instrument were established through pilot testing and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, which exceeded 0.80. In addition, spatial data were verified through ground-truthing methods. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics to summarize accessibility levels, followed by advanced spatial analysis using GIS to generate accessibility maps and density heatmaps. Inferential statistics, including t-tests and ANOVA, were employed to compare accessibility between urban and suburban areas, while multiple regression analysis determined the socio-economic and infrastructural predictors of accessibility. A Geographic Weighted Regression (GWR) model was applied to explore spatially varying relationships, providing nuanced insights into localized disparities. Ethics approval was obtained from the relevant institutional review board, and informed consent was secured from all participants. The anticipated findings are expected to reveal significant disparities in green space accessibility, with urban areas potentially exhibiting higher proximity but uneven distribution, while suburban areas may face issues of spatial scarcity. Socioeconomic variables such as income, education, and car ownership are predicted to be significant determinants, alongside infrastructural factors like park quality, connectivity, and safety. Spatial analysis is projected to demonstrate clustering of accessible green spaces in affluent neighborhoods and pockets of deprivation in marginalized communities. These findings aim to contribute to the theoretical understanding of environmental justice in urban planning and extend empirical knowledge on spatial inequities in green space provision. The study concludes that to promote equitable access, urban planning must integrate spatial and socio-economic considerations, prioritize underserved communities, and enhance infrastructural quality. Policy recommendations include increasing green space provision in marginalized suburbs, improving connectivity via pedestrian and cycling networks, and adopting participatory planning approaches to reflect community needs. Ultimately, this research advances the field by providing a detailed comparative framework applicable to similar contexts, informing policymakers, urban planners, and environmental advocates about strategies to mitigate spatial disparities and promote sustainable, inclusive urban environments.