AN EVALUATION OF URBAN RENEWAL STRATEGIES IN ENUGU METROPOLIS: THE CASE OF COAL CAMP, ENUGU STATE, NIGERIA.

ABSTRACT The study evaluated Urban Renewal Strategies in Enugu Metropolis: The Case of Coal Camp, Enugu State, Nigeria with objectives of documenting the urban renewal schemes carried out in Enugu Metropolis and the strategies adopted; ascertaining the effectiveness of the strategies adopted; reviewing the Coal Camp renewal action with particular emphasis on the negative and positive impacts on the people and environment; and making recommendations for improvement. The survey research design was adopted for the study as it enabled the efficient collection and reviewing of data from the respondents. Questionnaire, personal observation and face-to-face interview with town planners and residents constituted the data collection instruments. Frequencies, percentages, means and Goal Achievement Matrix (GAM) were employed in analyzing the study’s data. Major findings revealed that the socioeconomic characteristics of the respondents had significant impact on the positive or negative perception and success of urban renewal in Coal camp. From the study, urban renewal projects were conducted in Ikirike (Enugu South LGA which adopted redevelopment); Agu-Ow adopted redevelopment and rehabilitation while Coal camp adopted redevelopment. The study also found out that urban renewal strategy adopted in coal camp and Agu-Owa (redevelopment and rehabilitation) were more effective than that adopted in Ikirike (redevelopment). From the study, it was also revealed that the impacts of urban renewal in coal camp area included property damage/loss, loss of means of livelihood, household displacement; upgrade in environmental conditions; increased land value; improved infrastructure, roads and buildings; stability in the economy of coal camp and improved job opportunities. Major recommendation of the study states that further review of renewed sites like Ikirike, Agu-Owa and Coal camp should be undertaken. This is to ensure that project objectives are realized.