Examining the Appropriateness of Using Conventional Methods in the Valuation of Urban Green Space in Kampala.

Abstract

Urban green space is recognized as major contributors to the physical and aesthetic quality of urban neighborhoods. Hence, there is an increasing demand for improved quality of urban green space. The overall objective of the study was to examine the appropriateness of using conventional methods in the valuation of Urban green space in Kampala and Centenary Park along Jinja road was identified as a case study. In order to conduct this research, 338 questionnaires were randomly distributed to respondents in centenary park however, 266 valid response questionnaires were used for data analysis. The contingent valuation method was used. A binomial or binary logistic regression was used to estimate the relationship between dependent and independent variables and an estimate of willingness to pay guided by Heinemann’s WTP function in economic theory was calculated. The travel cost method was also used to establish willingness to pay. This was based on consumer surplus function from classical economic theory, a trip generating function was derived which basically generated the model for measuring willingness to pay using the method. The method further required the creation of buffers for purposes of targeting a controlled population and with this, simple geographical buffers were used which were delineated by geopolitical boundaries hence employing a simple direct travel cost approach. The factors affecting willingness to pay using the travel cost were established including sociodemographic characteristics of age, income status, employment status as well as education levels. Other factors such as travel time, means of transport, time spent in recreation, improvement in recreational facilities were also established and analyze to determine their relationship as well as correlation in determining willingness to pay for the urban green space however, the method stalled due to several factors as broadly described in this dissertation in data analysis and interpretation. A logistic regression was also used to establish the relationship between the variables affecting willingness to pay of Urban residents. The software including MS Excel and SPSS were used for statistical analysis, mathematical calculations and parameter estimation of the models. The results of the study revealed that 87.8% of the respondents are willing to pay an entrance fee for an improved quality of the urban leisure park endowed with amenities. The mean willingness to pay obtained was 10,000 shillings entry fee per person and the policy implications of this change are discussed.