A survey of the Upper Silesian–Dąbrowa Basin Metropolis (GZM) residents’ behaviours and expectations regarding urban and green public and semi-public spaces in the context of life satisfaction levels in 2023

Urban and green public spaces are crucial to the quality of life and competitiveness of cities. They meet the expectations of residents and increase their level of satisfaction with the city. This study examines the relationship between the habits and expectations of residents and contemporary models of urban development in the Upper Silesian–Dąbrowa Basin Metropolis (GZM) in Poland. The aim of the study was to determine the extent to which contemporary models of creating high-quality, competitive cities align with the preferences and expectations of residents. The study was conducted as part of the project titled ‘Challenges of Public Spaces and Social Cohesion of the Upper Silesian–Dąbrowa Basin Metropolis’, which encompasses five related areas. The research presented herein concerns primarily public spaces and landscape. Survey research and a literature review were conducted on a sample of 3,301 respondents using the CAWI method.

The results of this study reveal a discrepancy between the preferences and expectations of GZM residents and the values and objectives of spatial policy implemented by professionals and administrators. Residents prioritize direct access to greenery, open spaces, and privacy over the need for integration and city-forming spaces, which are perceived as less important. They focus on green areas irrespective of their quality, whereas urban planners and developers emphasize the need for shared public spaces with an urban vibe. However, the psychological significance of green areas for residents leads to a greater demand for their integration into urban areas, which could advance synergistically with the development of green infrastructure (environmental/nature aspect). This prompts a need for a revised model of transformation and regeneration of GZM cities.