The functionality of urban green spaces in the greater Kumasi Metropolis of Ghana: categorisation of green spaces, prospects, challenges and implications for sustainable management

Abstract The social, economic, and environmental health of cities relies on the effective and efficient management of its natural assets such as green spaces. Cities in the developing world are still experiencing uncontrolled urbanization, which poses a threat to the sustainability of green spaces. In this study, the researchers present the classification of green spaces in Kumasi using Swanwick et al.’s (Built Environ 29(2):94–106, 2003) categorisation of green spaces. Additionally, the researchers assessed the factors that threaten the sustainability of these green spaces. The study used a mixed methods approach, interviewing 345 green space users and their managers and conducting spatial analysis on green cover. The findings indicate a significant reduction in green cover by 39.86% between 2013 and 2023 due to urban expansion. Study results further showed that green spaces such as the KNUST Botanical Garden, the Royal Parade Ground, the Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Ahodwo Roundabout to Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly Clinic Road Corridor can be categorized into amenity green space, functional green space, semi-natural green space, and linear green space, respectively. The study revealed that green space categories determine users, uses, and management strategies. Threats to green space sustainability include encroachment, poor maintenance, and unsustainable funding. Urgent policy reform and innovative urban planning strategies are needed to ensure sustainable green space management.