Exploring the temporary appropriation of marginal open spaces in urban residential neighbourhoods

Open spaces are essential to the liveability of urban residential neighbourhoods. While formal open spaces, including neighbourhood parks, have been extensively studied for their environmental and social values, there is scanty research on marginal open spaces' potential uses and benefits. By drawing on an empirical study of residential neighbourhoods in a Nigerian urban centre, this study explores the temporary appropriation of marginal open spaces. The study adopts a mixed-method approach using a questionnaire survey, photographic recordings, observations, open space measurements and interviews with local planning authorities. Findings showed that marginal spaces exist in various types and forms, including open areas along neighbourhood streets and stream corridors. The three major types of temporary appropriation in the residential neighbourhoods were “Informal commerce”, “Leisure/social pursuit” and “Sacralisation (religious activity)”. The most critical concerns regarding open space appropriation, measured on a five-point Likert scale, were “Lack of safety”, “Absence of tree cover/shade” and “Stench from uncollected waste”, with scales of 4.92, 4.68 and 4.42, respectively. Information gathered from the local planning authorities also showed that the users violated the planning regulations guiding the marginal spaces. The study concluded that although the temporary use of open spaces in residential neighbourhoods is essential for improving the residents' livelihoods and socio-cultural lives, the practice is fraught with several challenges. Consequently, practical policy recommendations were proffered to ensure that marginal spaces are produced as desirable areas for everyday life while maintaining hygiene, safety, cleanliness and comfort.