ABSTRACT

A detailed literature survey was completed and used to build up the theoretical basis for the research. Many different methods could be used in order to identify the position of the Beira Lake among other distinctive landmarks of the city which can be derived city image. The most popular of these methods are attitude surveys, various questionnaires, focus groups and indepth interviews (Fenster et al., 1994). In order to reach the aims and objectives described in the previous section, 400 in-depth interviews were done, along with a focus group. For the in-depth interviews, a convenient sample of citizens from differing age groups living in catchments areas of the Beira Lake was used. The respondents were asked to identify the main landmarks which form an image of the city, and prioritise them according to their preferences. Participants were asked about their image of Colombo, emphasising both the positive and negative aspects. Current status of Beira Lake and its affect on the city image was revealed from the respondents’ perceptions.