Relevant landscape components in a large urban green space in Oporto (Portugal)

Landscape components are essential in the design and fruition of any urban green space (UGS). This is particularly relevant considering the growth rate of the urban population worldwide, the increase in the number and intensity of severe weather episodes due to climate change, and the relevance of UGSs for global human well-being, as highlighted by the United Nations in their Sustainable Development Goals. This study examines users’ perceptions of UGSs regarding the importance of landscape components, which can influence users’ preferences for UGS use. The research was conducted in a major urban park subdivided into 10 landscape units in Oporto, Portugal. The paper uses information gathered through face-to-face surveys from stationary park users (n = 500) engaged in diverse activities, through which 13 landscape elements were assessed for their relevance in determining choice of location. The results show significant differences between the assessed landscape units at the user level for all socio-demographic variables, with the exception of the gender variable. Significant differences between landscape units were also identified in terms of the relevance attributed to the different landscape components. Exploratory factor analysis identified five main factors influencing user preferences: comfort and security (including vegetation density, tranquillity of space, availability of shade, good maintenance, and forest coverage), landscape diversity (diversity of open spaces, diversity of flora and fauna, and presence of shrubs), water presence, recreational facilities, and open spaces for activities. The results also highlight an issue related to distributional justice regarding the assessed study area. Our results have relevant implications for the design and management of UGSs. We propose diverse actions, addressing issues related to the balance between open spaces and rich greenery, multifunctional design, shade coverage, maintenance, forest coverage, vegetation diversity, the incorporation of water features, and the provision of recreational facilities.