A GIS Analysis for Identifying Suitable Locations Establishing for New Urban Green Space in Colombo Municipal Council, Sri Lanka

Abstract: Urban green spaces are vital for enhancing the quality of life in densely populated areas by offering recreational opportunities, improving air quality, and mitigating urban heat island effects. This research focuses on identifying suitable locations for new urban green spaces within the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC), Sri Lanka, using a Global Position System (GIS)-based Multi-Criteria Evaluation (MCE) approach. The rapid urbanisation and increasing population in Colombo have made it essential to evaluate potential sites for green space development. The study utilises the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to assign weights to factors that influence land suitability, including population density, proximity to water sources, settlements, roads, Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), land use, elevation, and slope. By integrating these criteria into a GIS framework, the research provides a comprehensive spatial analysis to highlight optimal areas for green space development. The study identified several potential sites for new urban green spaces through the suitability map, with the southern part of Colombo, including areas near the Port City and Beira Lake, emerging as the most suitable due to favourable environmental conditions such as proximity to water bodies and higher population densities. The research not only contributes to sustainable urban planning but also aims to improve environmental quality and public health in Colombo. It offers a replicable model for other rapidly urbanising cities seeking to optimise green space allocation. The findings recommend that urban planners prioritise new green spaces in highly suitable areas like the southern parts of Colombo, and that existing green spaces be expanded, particularly in underserved areas. Integrating green space development into Colombo's broader urban strategies is crucial for building resilience against urbanisation challenges like pollution and heat islands. Continuous GIS-based monitoring will ensure the adaptive management of green spaces, helping safeguard Colombo’s long-term sustainability and enhance residents' well-being.

Keywords: Urban Green Space, GIS-based Suitability Analysis, Multi-Criteria Evaluation (MCE), Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), Colombo Municipal Council (CMC)

Urban Green Space, GIS-based Suitability Analysis, Multi-Criteria Evaluation (MCE), Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), Colombo Municipal Council (CMC)

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