Assessing accessibility of urban parks: An need-based approach in Hong Kong

The growing importance of urban green spaces provision has appeared in the land use planning among compact megapolises, securing a sufficient amount of area in wishes of city liveability. Urban parks are one of the urban green spaces. Policy regarding the accessibility of urban parks in Hong Kong is rigid and lagging. Previous research has delineated the accessibility of urban parks in a need-based approach. The role of race, income level, and age were incorporate in the index. In this research project, I use quantitative method of spatial mapping and questionnaires to refine and elaborate the need-based accessibility. Research objectives are (1) The area of UPs (within 400m walking distance) accommodates the population in the community; (2) The functions of UPs (within 400m walking distance) accommodates the residents’ preference. Contrary to what has presented in empirical studies, this research found out the need for park functions varies by age. The income level does not contribute to a variety of park functions preference. The findings indicate an uneven distribution of location and area of urban parks in two study area. It brought policy implications to current maintenance and future panning on urban parks in different neighbourhood design.