International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development-– Volume 7 Issue 6, Nov-Dec 2024 Available at www.ijsred.com ISSN : 2581-7175 ©IJSRED: All Rights are Reserved Page 1134 Functionality Analysis of Formal-Green Spaces: The Planning and Development Perspectives (The Case of Durame Town, Central Ethiopia) Mihretu Erjino*, *(Department of Urban Planning and Development, College of Urban Development and Engineering, Ethiopian Civil Service University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Email: erjinom@gmail.com) ----------------------------------------************************---------------------------------- Abstract: Formal green spaces significantly enhance urban living by improving residents’ quality of life and serving as hubs for recreation, cultural activities, and social interactions. They also provide economic and environmental benefits. However, these advantages can only be realized through effective planning and development. Inadequate practices such as poor spatial design, insufficient infrastructure, lack of facilities, and ineffective management often leave green spaces underutilized and unable to fulfil their intended purposes. In Durame town, Central Ethiopia region, such challenges have burdened the administration, prompting a study to analyze the functionality of formal green spaces from planning and development perspectives. The research sought to evaluate the planning and development of existing green spaces, identify gaps in proposed plans, assess development progress, and investigate associated challenges. A descriptive survey method was employed, using both probability and non-probability sampling techniques to gather and analyze qualitative data from primary and secondary sources. The findings revealed that ineffective planning practices and insufficient stakeholder investment hinder the functionality of green spaces. The research underscores the need for improved planning and development approaches to enhance the utility of these spaces, benefiting residents, the municipality, and other stakeholders in the town. Keywords — Formal-Green Space, Planning, Development, Functionality, Durame ----------------------------------------************************---------------------------------- 1. INTRODUCTION This chapter introduces the study by discussing its background, the problem that motivated the research, its objectives, research questions, significance, scope, and limitations. It also outlines the organization of the thesis 1.1 Background of the Study Green spaces are areas within urban environments covered with natural or man-made vegetation, such as city parks, botanical gardens, and street trees [8], [4]. These spaces are integral to urban ecosystems and play a crucial role in enhancing environmental, economic, and social well-being [9]. Urban green spaces, such as parks and gardens, not only contribute to aesthetic values but are also essential for health and recreation, as emphasized by Ebenezer Howard, the originator of the garden city model [7]. Urban planning involves not only the development of infrastructure, such as housing and transportation, but also the integration of green spaces into the urban landscape. Well-planned RESEARCH ARTICLE OPEN ACCESS