Systematic Spatial Analysis and Planning of The Recreation Corridor in The University of Calabar: Implications for A Healthy Academic Environment
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47514/kjg.2025.07.01.041Keywords:
Active mobility, Campus Planning, Geospatial Analysis, Recreational Corridor, Spatial Connectivity, Sustainability, University of CalabarAbstract
Recreational spaces play a vital role in shaping healthy university environments by supporting physical activity, mental well-being, social interaction, and overall campus experience. Although the University of Calabar has a wide range of recreational facilities, they remain spatially fragmented and poorly connected. This study applied a detailed geospatial analysis to examine the distribution, density, and connectivity of recreational nodes and to evaluate their potential for the development of an integrated campus-wide recreation corridor. Nineteen recreation and social nodes were geo-referenced using GPS (WGS 84) and analysed through spatial plotting, Haversine-based geodesic distance measurement, kernel density estimation, and Minimum Spanning Tree (MST) network optimisation. Field observations further assessed land-use context, pathway condition, accessibility, and environmental quality. Results revealed a clear tri-cluster spatial structure comprising administrative–academic, student–residential–recreational, and institutional–public activity zones. Kernel density mapping identified a high-intensity recreational belt along the Malabor–Stadium–Library axis, with average inter-node distances of 120–150 metres, indicating strong walkability potential. The MST generated an efficient network of 3.17 km, representing the minimum corridor length required to connect all nodes. Central belt connections showed short links of 60–90 metres, reflecting high pedestrian integration, while peripheral connections highlighted gaps requiring pathway enhancement. Overall, the proposed corridor aligns well with existing movement patterns and offers significant benefits for active mobility, spatial equity, social interaction, campus wellness, and environmental sustainability. The study presents a practical, geospatially informed framework to guide recreation-oriented campus planning at the University of Calabar and similar institutions.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Clement Anake, Akeh, Linus B. (Author)
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