ASSESSING GREEN SPACE FRAGMENTATION AND ACCESS IN CONSTANTINE (ALGERIA)

Abstract

Urban green spaces are essential for biodiversity, ecosystem services, and human well-being in rapidly growing cities. This study examines how green spaces are spread out, fragmented, connected, and accessible in Constantine, a Mediterranean town with a historic center and expanding suburbs. Using GIS-based spatial analysis and resident surveys, green spaces were categorized into ecological cores (35%), linear and scattered elements (20%), and peripheral natural areas (45%). The analysis found 120 separate patches, low corridor density, and distances between patches of 500-800 m in central regions compared to 1.5 km in the outskirts. About 65% of residents can reach a green space within 10 minutes, but around 40% are unhappy with the quality, especially in peripheral neighborhoods. Fragmentation and limited connection reduce ecosystem services, and spatial inequalities limit social benefits. These results emphasize the need for integrated planning of urban green infrastructure, including protecting core areas, improving small and private patches, and creating ecological corridors to improve both environmental and social benefits. This study offers a transferable framework for designing sustainable urban green networks in Mediterranean and similar urban settings