URBAN RECREATIONAL WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS: SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT

Abstract

A waterfront development is a worldwide well-established phenomenon, and Sri Lanka has recently been involved in waterfront development projects, notably recreational waterfront development projects. Therefore, the primary aim of this study is to evaluate the sustainability of urban recreational waterfront development projects in the Colombo metropolitan area. The qualitative research methodology is used, and primary data is gathered through observations and interviews. The structured interviews were conducted using the judgmental sampling technique with nine experts involved in Urban Recreational Water front Development projects in Sri Lanka. The content analysis approach was used to analyze qualitative data. The study presented six environmental aspects, three economic aspects, and seven social features that contribute to the long-term viability of urban recreational waterfront development projects in Sri Lanka. Accordingly, the study addresses a vacuum in the literature by outlining the social, economic, and environmental factors specific to urban recreational waterfront development projects in Sri Lanka for which there are no prior evidences.

Keywords: Urban Recreation, Waterfront Development