Study on Governance of Urban Renewal in the UK, Hong Kong and China

Abstract

China’s fast growth of economy and urbanization has created a world record on its own since its reform and opening-up policy in late 1970s. This drives mass demolition and reconstruction and leaves a short lifespan of existing buildings through unsustainable urban renewal. Many developed countries/regions, such as the UK and Hong Kong, have long history of urban renewal. The urban renewal governance has shifted from government-led to broad participation. However, a lack of compatible governance causes the unsustainability during the urban renewal process in China. Little research explores the rationale on how far China can learn from its developed counterparts in the governance of urban renewal. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the current problems and future development of urban renewal governance in China by comparing with the UK and Hong Kong. Firstly, it reviews the nature and status quo of governance of urban renewal in China, the UK and Hong Kong respectively; secondly, through comparing characteristics (role of governments, local participation, and decision basis) of urban renewal governance, differences between China and its developed counterparts will be identified; finally, policy implications are drawn for China to deal with future urban renewal and achieve sustainable development.