EVALUATION OF SUSTAINABILITY INDICATORS IN RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS IN GWAGWALADA, FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY

Abstract

The study assessed sustainability indicators in residential developments within Gwagwalada, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria. The key objectives included evaluating the environmental, social, and economic sustainability of three distinct development types: master-planned developments (MPD), sub-divided developments (SDD), and piecemeal developments (PMD). The study adopted a survey research design, utilizing structured questionnaires and direct field observations to collect primary data. A reconnaissance survey was conducted to observe and inventory the selected residential neighborhoods. The study determined a sample size of 400 respondents using Taro Yamane’s formula, ensuring representativeness through a stratified random sampling technique. For data analysis, descriptive statistical techniques such as frequency distributions and percentages were employed to summarize the key characteristics of the data. Additionally, the Neighbourhood Sustainability Assessment Index (NSAI) was applied to evaluate sustainability criteria across the three development patterns. Content analysis of expert interviews and stakeholder discussions provided qualitative insights to supplement the quantitative findings. Key findings indicated that PMD, prevalent in areas such as Kutunku, Gwako, and Zuba, exhibited the lowest sustainability performance, scoring particularly low in open space provision (6.5), internal connectivity (5.5), and affordable housing (5.5). SDD, observed in Tungan Maje and parts of Dobi, presented a balanced but moderate sustainability score, excelling in traffic calming measures (11.0) and crime prevention/safety (16.5) but underperforming in access to public transport (5.5). MPD, dominant in Gwagwalada Central and Quarters, demonstrated the highest overall sustainability score of 356.5, reflecting superior land use integration, non-motorized transport (27.5), and internal connectivity (22.5). Environmental sustainability scores revealed that MPD outperformed SDD and PMD, scoring 169.5, 125.0, and 61.5, respectively. Similarly, social and economic sustainability indicators highlighted MPD’s well-coordinated planning, whereas PMD struggled with fragmented and unstructured development patterns. Based on these findings, the study recommended structured planning approaches that prioritized comprehensive land use policies, improved transport infrastructure, and increased access to essential services. Strengthening policy implementation and fostering collaboration between urban planners and stakeholders were essential for enhancing sustainability in residential developments. In conclusion, the study underscored the need for integrated planning strategies to foster sustainable urban growth in Gwagwalada, emphasizing the significance of adopting master-planned development principles to improve neighborhood sustainability.