Author(s)

SIYA BROWN

Abstract

Waterfront regeneration provides an opportunity for countries to sustainably develop their urban areas and improve their economy. Coastal cities in Nigeria are faced with rapid urbanization and environmental degradation which poses challenges on the government and residents. This paper aims to develop a framework that will sustainably regenerate the waterfront areas in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. The framework integrates urban planning and infrastructure development that could lead to socio-economic growth, environmental resilience and housing. Port Harcourt, an important oil-producing and commercial city in Nigeria, has experienced rapid population growth, unplanned urban expansion and industrial pollution that has threatened both ecological balance and socio-economic development in the city and decline in the quality of life for waterfront residents. This research focuses on sustainable waterfront regeneration that would promote tourism and other commercial activities to create employment opportunities and investment in Port Harcourt. The developed framework considers stakeholder participation, climate-sensitive design and sustainable infrastructure development as well as past regeneration efforts by the government. The paper examines global best practices in waterfront regeneration and assesses their applicability to Port Harcourt by highlighting key challenges. Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires distributed to 300 respondents and interviews were conducted with 15 professionals in the built environment and staff of Rivers State Government. SPSS software was used to analyse data which shows the need for adaptive urban planning policies, measures conservating the environment and strategic investments in infrastructure that will transform and sustainably regenerate the waterfront areas of Port Harcourt. Drawing from global best practices, the research identifies key development variables for the region including clean environment, land ownership structure, culture building, and regeneration plan. The framework advocates for a planning collaborative model of government institutions, the private sector, and local communities to ensure comprehensive, context-specific strategies that will regenerate and revitalize the economy.

Keywords

waterfront regeneration, city building, infrastructures, urban design, government policies, sustainable tourism, tourism infrastructure, sustainable development goals, United Nations