JOURNAL OF LIAONING TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY

THE SOCIAL AND AESTHETICAL IMPACT OF ABANDONED BUILDINGS ON THE ENVIRONMENTOF OKENE LOCAL GOVERNMENT, KOGI STATE

Adetunji, Adekunle, Ibimilua, Foyeke Omoboye

ABSTRACT

This work probed into the reasons and causes of the emergence of abandoned buildings and importantly the effects they have on the visual, living, social and economical environment of Okene. It has also ascertained the impression people have about such structures including what should be done to check the ugly trend in mind that we are required to leave the environment better than we met it. Basically, this study found that substandard, dilapidated and abandoned buildings abound in the study area. They exert far-reaching effect on the environment. Considering the prevailing biting economic situation in our society, the various authorities responsible for enforcing development and construction standards generally adopt the practice of what is referred to as “Giving a human face to planning”. In other words they tend to ignore the emergence of these defective structures in understanding of the fact that the times are hard, hence, the continued existence of such structures at various parts of Okene. However, they ensure that the structures are not made solidly so as to be easily removed whenever a major development is to be embarked upon. This study has proposed that the planning authorities should ensures strict compliance to set standards, building projects be preceded by a well-articulated planning before actual commencement of work more so, consultation and use of relevant professional should be seen to be indispensable.

Keywords: Abandoned Buildings, Aesthetical, Environment, Social