Assessment of community park as social interaction place for rural communities: a case study of Peyi Community Bwari Abuja

Abstract

This study is focused on the benefits of community park as a place of social interaction in Peyi community, Bwari Abuja. The study examined community parks and their environmental impact as it relates to social interaction. Community parks play a significant role in the society, they provide significant impact to their host communities by enhancing regional development. It boosts the economy, as well as the dynamics of social processes. A mix methods approach of qualitative and quantitative research was adopted for the study using questionnaire, interview guide and observation checklist. A sample size of 150 was considered, adopting the stratified random sampling technique. The result was analyzed using SPSS and the findings are presented in tables and charts. The findings of the study revealed there is a good interaction in Peyi Community Park between people from different social and cultural backgrounds hence the aim of social interaction in the community park was met but about 60% decry poor availability of basic amenities, inadequate spaces provided as well as lack of privacy and overall poor security Architecture in the park. The study concluded that it is necessary for Architects and other building professionals involved in community park designs to consider innovative ways of ensuring safety at night through the use of motion sensitive lighting systems and other passive measures, design consideration for end users and also design to accommodate anticipated population including provision of age appropriate facilities.