Visitor perceptions of urban parks. a case study of the green park and Cherutombo park in Marondera

Author

Gonde, N.

Title

Visitor perceptions of urban parks. a case study of the green park and Cherutombo park in Marondera

Abstract

This study examined visitor perceptions of urban parks in Marondera, Zimbabwe, comparing The Green Park and Cherutombo Park. The main aim was to explore how socio-demographic factors, park quality, and accessibility influence utilisation patterns. Using mixed methods, 40 park visitors (20 per park) were surveyed. There were differences between the two parks. The Green Park attracted higher-income, educated visitors (55% tertiary education, 45% earning >$500 monthly) with superior satisfaction rates (65% vs. 40%). Safety perceptions were higher in Green Park (75% vs. 40% feeling safe), alongside better quality indicators: cleanliness (65% vs. 25% rating clean/very clean), facilities satisfaction (55% vs. 20%), and green space quality (75% vs. 35% rating excellent/good). Despite lower quality ratings, Cherutombo Park served immediate community needs with 40% of visitors living within 1 km and 25% visiting daily, compared to 15% and 10% for The Green Park. Transportation patterns also differed: 50% of Cherutombo visitors walked versus 30% at The Green Park, while private vehicle use was 30% versus 5% respectively. Green Park emphasized relaxation (80%) and nature appreciation (70%), while Cherutombo Park focused on socializing (75%) and exercise (55%). Universal recognition of parks’ community value was high (92.5%). The study recommends improving facilities in underserved parks to enhance accessibility and visitor satisfaction.

Date

OCTOBER 2025

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

urban parks

visitor perceptions

Zimbabwe

park quality

community engagement

green space access

Supervisor

Mr Mhlanga