An Assessment of the Impact of Road Construction on Land Use Pattern in Urban Centres in Nigeria, A Case Study of Jalingo LGA, Taraba State Nigeria

Abstract

The rapid growth of Jalingo metropolis in Taraba State Nigeria has necessitated the development of transportation facilities to accommodate relative increases in population and vehicle traffic. This study examines the impact of road construction on land use patterns, land value changes and the economic, social and environmental impacts that result. Questionnaires were used to collect data for the study and were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics, particularly frequencies, percentages and ratios. Analysis of variance was used to assess variation in land values over time along the newly constructed roads in the Metropolis. Physical inspection of the study area was undertaken to obtain first hand information on various uses along the major roads newly constructed in the study area. The findings of this study shows that land use along the major newly constructed roads has undergone a substantial level of change from agricultural farm lands and open fields to residential and commercial uses with the later becoming more prevalent. Alongside this change is a corresponding increase in both rental and capital values of landed properties on both sides of the newly constructed roads in the study area. Influx of people and traders into Jalingo metropolis because of its relative peace contributed to these actions and afterwards, the advantage of complimentarity provided by the road becomes the factor attracting more residential and business activities into the area. The study noted that with the expansion of Jalingo metropolis through the expansion of the urban road network, there is need to put adequate development control mechanism in place for maximum effectiveness. The town planning authority should enforce the implementation of the provisions of the Jalingo urban master plan to allow for balance in land allocation for various uses.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n10p82