User experiences of urban parks are key to their sustainable management, yet traditional survey methods can be resource-intensive. A recent study utilizing online review analytics sheds light on these experiences, drawing on data from Google reviews to examine perceptions of urban parks in Cairo, Egypt.
By analyzing sentiments expressed about eight urban parks, the researchers identified four core themes: quality and maintenance, family and activities, costs and affordability, and the natural environment. The results reveal the extensive engagement of users with these urban landscapes, indicating 79.8% of reviews were positive, demonstrating the overall satisfaction of the public. Conversely, 8.1% expressed negative sentiments, typically centered on issues of commercialization and costs, which appeared to affect park accessibility.
The importance of urban parks cannot be overstated; they provide invaluable environmental, social, and recreational benefits, contributing to the well-being of city residents. Yet, various factors, including urbanization and socioeconomic disparities, can limit the ability of such parks to serve their intended purpose. The study highlights the discrepancies between perceived accessibility and actual accessibility, urging for more nuanced management strategies.
Researchers found sentiment analysis particularly illuminating, with statistical analysis illustrating how safety concerns and commercialization-related elements significantly impact perceptions of park accessibility. "The prices are high for each game, meaning if you have more than one child, you will pay a lot," commented one user, exemplifying concerns surrounding the affordability of recreational activities. This sentiment reflects broader issues of inclusivity as urban authorities increasingly commercialize these green spaces to generate revenue.
The need for parks to attract diverse user groups is emphasized by findings linking park attractiveness to cultural experiences and regulatory factors like cleanliness and quietness. With competitors to green spaces often presenting paid attractions, it becomes imperative for parks to reinforce their appeal through enhanced natural features and well-maintained facilities. One review captured this sentiment beautifully: "It has atypical Islamic mosaic designs, magnificent water fountains, and aqueducts. Wandering around the park gives fantastic aerial views of historic Cairo." Such qualities attract visitors and fulfill the cultural and aesthetic needs of urban dwellers.
Although this study's data present opportunities for actionable insights, researchers caution against inherent biases present within review datasets. Higher-income users or those with more digital access may dominate the online narratives, potentially skewing the overall sentiment analysis. Consequently, future research could be enhanced by integrating qualitative methods to capture the experiences of broader demographic groups, ensuring underrepresented voices contribute to park management discussions.
The study sheds light on how commercialization, like entry fees and costly amenities, creates barriers for disadvantaged populations. A recurring theme from the reviews highlights concerns about the cost-value ratio associated with park visits. Users regularly express dissatisfaction with high prices compared to the perceived quality of amenities. One report noted, "The place is very crowded, especially during weekends and holidays, and the toilets and taps cannot accommodate the number of visitors," indicating the frustration stemming from inadequate facilities and over-commercialization.
To achieve equitable urban green spaces, the study advocates user-informed management strategies prioritizing the use-value of parks over their exchange-value. This involves addressing physical and psychological barriers, enhancing park quality, and ensuring affordability for recreational activities. Not only does this help maintain user satisfaction, but it also promotes active community engagement with their local parks.
Understanding public experiences of urban parks is pivotal. This study serves as a significant step toward establishing more informed management practices based on user sentiment, contributing to the long-term sustainability and attractiveness of urban parks. The insights gleaned from this innovative use of online reviews can guide both policymakers and urban planners, emphasizing the necessity for accessible, enjoyable, and multifunctional public green spaces within urban landscapes.