Spatial Distribution and Locational Impact of Petrol Service Stations in Ilorin South Local Government Area, Ilorin, Nigeria

This study investigates the spatial distribution and locational impact of petrol service stations in Ilorin South Local Government Area, Kwara State, Nigeria. The aim is to analyze the pattern of distribution, assess compliance with planning regulations, examine environmental and social impacts, and propose sustainable planning strategies. The research employs both primary and secondary data sources, including field surveys, GPS data, structured questionnaires, and GIS-based spatial analysis techniques. Respondents was selected using simple random sampling, and spatial tools such as Nearest Neighbour Analysis and buffer analysis were applied using ArcGIS.
The results reveal that petrol stations in the study area are highly clustered, particularly along major roads and commercial corridors, with a Nearest Neighbour Ratio of 0.41 and a significant z-score of -7.96. Many stations were found to violate planning regulations, such as minimum setback distances from residential buildings, public facilities, and other stations (Table 4.2). Questionnaire analysis further shows that residents experience varying degrees of environmental and safety concerns, with 40.8% expressing that they did not feel safe living near petrol stations, and a majority reporting issues like traffic congestion (Figure 4.11), air and noise pollution, and fire hazards (Figure 4.13).
The study concludes that the current spatial distribution poses serious risks to urban livability and public safety. It recommends stricter enforcement of planning regulations, decentralization of station locations, and regular environmental monitoring to mitigate associated hazards. The findings contribute to existing planning knowledge by demonstrating the application of spatial tools in evaluating urban infrastructure and highlighting the urgent need for regulatory compliance in the siting of hazardous facilities.