The usability of recreation areas for individuals withphysical deficiencies: The case of Antalya province

The aim of this study is to predict and determine the current spatial equipment and qualitative and quantitative competencies of the urban parks in the city of Antalya within the context of individuals with physical deficiencies. The population of the study consists of the parks of Antalya Metropolitan Municipality. In this context, the research provides suggestions for planning the urban parks by considering the individuals with physical deficiencies and taking necessary measures to make them adequate in terms of quantity and quality, and provides more livable and usable unhindered recreation areas for individuals with deficiencies. The research includes urban parks of Antalya Metropolitan Municipality between the years 2017 and 2019. These parks consist of a total of 8 parks including Atatürk Culture Park, Atatürk Park, Yavuz Özcan Park, Karaalioğlu Park, Büklüdere Park, Düden Park, Akdeniz Kent Park (Mediterranean City Park) and Sahil Antalya Life Park. It covers the availability of Antalya city parks by individuals with physical deficiencies. This study is a qualitative study that examines the availability of urban parks, which is one of the recreation areas in terms of physical deficiencies in line with urban park criteria. The case study model was used in the study. The research area was analyzed with interviews with Antalya Metropolitan Municipality (question-answer), observation and on-site investigation methods. As a result, the existing city parks are located by the sea in the city center. Although it is sufficient in terms of quantity and area for all individuals including the ones with physical deficiency, it is an obstacle for individuals with inadequate material and design. Especially the slopes of the ramps in the parks are above the standards, there are code differences and the lack of yellow bands are among the major problems. Toilets, playgrounds and sports and fitness areas are determined to be unsuitable for individuals with physical deficiencies. There is no parking area for children with deficiencies in the other parks except the Barrier-Free Park in the Akdeniz Kent Park. (Mediterranean City Park) Keywords: Recreation, Physical Deficiency, Availability