Urban forest and the question of planning-sustainability inadequacy

Abstract

Many cities seek urban green infrastructure to improve their liveability amid rapid urbanisation and climate change. The changes brought by urban green infrastructure are often reflected in socio-economic growth and environmental health. Yet, the development agendas of many cities, especially in Africa, do not always reflect the benefits of urban green infrastructure. Framed around the Achimota Forest Reserve in Ghana, this study intends to open the discussion on urban planning-sustainability narrative by: (i) assessing the land use land cover changes of urban forests; (ii) analysing the factors influencing the changes in urban forests; and (iii) examining urban planning responses towards management of urban forests and their implications for urban sustainability. Mixed methods approach involving spatial data analysis, secondary data review, and agency and community interviews was used. Findings suggest a critical urban planning neglect, low institutional capacity and nonchalant community attitudes leading to a loss of Achimota Forest Reserve (about 0.35 % per annum) between 1999 and 2019. The findings show that there are rapid changes in the land use structure and integrity of the Achimota Forest Reserve, with both urban planning and sustainability implications on Accra. With rapid urbanisation and weak management regulatory framework, urban forest in the research area is affected by rapid encroachment of physical development and unauthorised practices by some urban residents. This research concludes that consideration and implementation of proactive approaches by management institutions are required to make urban forest sustainable and to ensure their ongoing provision of ecological services to the city.