Assessment of the impact of Change in the Use of Buildings in Kampala.

Abstract

The research was aimed at assessing the impact of change in the use of buildings in Kampala. The objectives of the research are described in chapter one which included identifying the most common changes made on buildings, the reasons for change in use, the modifications done on the buildings and the problems caused by the change in use of buildings. Chapter two of the research looked at the literature review of the study which is an evaluative report of information found in the literature related to the area of study. Chapter three looked at the methodology used to collect data for the study. The methods used included photography, use of questionnaires and interviews. Chapter four of the report presents the findings of the research and analysis. The research findings were presented using graphs, pie charts and in text Civil works involving demolition and construction of walls, placement of furniture and fittings, works on finishes and changes to the landscape were done. Most of the businesses setup their premises in various locations within the city. This has led to the over population of the city leading to increased traffic ,congestion, increased sound pollution due to vehicular and pedestrian activities, increased cost of renting space in office buildings and limited parking space. Due to the above reasons, a number of businesses choose to relocate to the outskirts of the city which were majorly comprised of residential communities. As a result of this shift, some residential communities were completely over taken by commercial activities which prompted the city authorities to rezone these regions as commercial areas. In carrying out the study, the organization of the building before and after the change in use were both considered. The various ways to resolve the problems identified in the research are described in chapter five consists of the conclusions and recommendations.