An evaluation of green areas from the point of user satisfaction in Ankara, Turkey: Gap analyses method

Green spaces contribute to the urban environment by producing positive ecological impacts and providing spaces for recreation and contact with nature. It is proven in various researches that urban green spaces and especially the parks increase the quality of life by presenting a variety of recreational experiences. Benefits and performances of green spaces are assessed by user satisfaction studies. This study aims to reveal the satisfaction level of users by using gap analyses method in significant green spaces of Ankara namely Altınpark, Gençlik Parkı, Göksu Parkı, Harikalar Diyarı and Mogan Park. In these daily used recreation areas, quality of service, important comments (importance) of the users prior to their visits and experiences after use (satisfaction) are evaluated by ranking. With this purpose a questionnaire survey is applied to 289 people in September and November 2009. The results show that in order to raise the satisfaction level of users, the number of entertainment areas should be increased and access to information services, park keepers and wards that can react immediately to the needs of the visitors should be provided.