Assessing Causative Characteristics of Abandoned Completed Urban Market Projects in Ghana

Abstract

This paper assesses the causative characteristics of abandoned completed urban market projects in the Bono Region, Ghana, and its associated effect. The study used the mixed methodology research approach. Eight abandoned completed urban market projects were visited within the region. A total of sixteen consultant and contractor teams were selected using the purposive sampling technique. Thirty-two (32) questionnaires were administered and received from would-be users, consultants, and contractors of the eight selected projects. Bad location, non-provision of auxiliary facilities, high rent charges, long distance from the communities, small size of sheds and stalls and non-user consultation were the highest causative characteristics. The effects of abandon markets were resource wastage, unemployment, and decrease in revenue accruable to the state. Markets are a source of product delivery that promotes sustainable economic development, jobs, communication and enhances the identity of the communities. Wastage of resources occurs if an urban market project is abandoned. Improvement of would-be user’s satisfaction is imperative to reduce non-usage leading to the abandonment of market project. Therefore, auxiliary utilities such as electricity, water, sanitation, and access roads must be included in the project at the planning phases. The paper affirms the relevance of user satisfaction of urban market projects to avoid wastage of public resources.