Urban Health of Bainem Forest: Designing for Inclusion-An Analysis of Accessibility and Amenities

Abstract

This paper examines the crucial role of green spaces in promoting public well-being, focusing on urban health and the accessibility of Bainem Forest in Algiers. It explores the challenges and opportunities involved in balancing urbanization with forest conservation while enhancing public access to this vital green space. Integrating "forest therapy" principles and sustainable urban planning aims improving access to Bainem Forest while preserving its ecological value.

Assessing Bainem Forest's potential was the primary objective of this research as a key urban health resource in Algiers. It evaluates the forest's accessibility, current amenities, and the challenges posed by urban encroachment. The study also proposes strategies to improve access and infrastructure, ensuring that the forest’s ecological integrity remains intact. Drawing on global best practices in urban forest management provides recommendations for equitable and sustainable development.

Bainem Forest, located near the Mediterranean coast, serves as a crucial green space in the rapidly urbanizing city of Algiers. Urban green spaces like Bainem Forest are increasingly recognized for their benefits to physical and mental health through recreational opportunities and nature immersion. However, despite its significant potential, the forest faces challenges related to accessibility and the uneven distribution of amenities. Urbanization pressures and inadequate infrastructure further threaten its long-term sustainability.

This study employs combined Space Syntax analysis and field observations to assess the accessibility and infrastructure of Bainem Forest. The research examines major roads, pathways, and entry points, and incorporates a review of urban development plans highlighting climbing areas, landmarks, and urban features surrounding the forest. Case studies from virtuous cities are used to model integrated urban forest management strategies. A particular focus is placed on the impact of terrain on accessibility, highlighting the need for both vehicle access and pedestrian pathways to ensure equitable use. The Space Syntax analysis and field observations identified several key issues.

(1)    Accessibility: Bainem Forest is poorly integrated with the surrounding neighborhoods, with main access points.

(2)    Amenities: The distribution of amenities is concentrated near the forest’s main entrances, creating disparities across different sections of the forest.

(3)    Urban Encroachment: The forest’s ecological integrity is threatened by urban sprawl from nearby residential areas.

Despite these challenges, Bainem Forest remains a valuable green space with significant potential to contribute to public health. By applying lessons learned from urban forest management in virtuous cities, the study suggests strategies for improving accessibility, developing eco-friendly infrastructure, and fostering community engagement in forest conservation. The research concludes that improving accessibility and infrastructure in Bainem Forest is essential to maximize its role in promoting urban health. A comprehensive management plan that prioritizes both accessibility and ecological preservation is recommended:

(1)      Enhancing public transport and pedestrian access to Bainem Forest.

(2)      Improving the distribution of amenities, particularly in underserved areas.

(3)      Implementing zoning laws and buffer zones to protect the forest from urban encroachment.

(4)      Encouraging community involvement in forest conservation efforts.

Thus, by implementing these strategies, Bainem Forest can serve as a critical resource for urban health while protecting its natural ecosystem. This study offers a novel integration of Space Syntax analysis with traditional urban planning and environmental conservation methods to assess the accessibility of urban green spaces. Moreover, the comparative analysis of global case studies provides actionable strategies that can be adapted to the local context in Algiers.