Impact assessment of urban renewal project : a case study of the Lee Tung Street

Abstract

Urban renewal is a critical issue in Hong Kong. On one hand, many old districts in Hong Kong such as Wan Chai and Kwun Tong are suffering from urban decay; poor living environment and dilapidated buildings are urging for large-scale replanning and reconstruction. On the other hand, growing criticisms constantly arose, arguing that the renewal initiatives and process only focus on the physical and economic aspects, but lack of social consideration and humane care.

Numerous studies have been conducted to generally evaluate the economic and social impacts of urban renewal project. In this dissertation, the author will take the local case of Lee Tung Street as an example. A cross-sectional survey including the tenants and trades information was conducted soon after the announcement of the project to examine the social economic impacts within the study area. Demographic features and property prices in the nearby neighbourhood area were also observed comparatively from 2001 to 2011, so as to understand the externalities of the renewal project. Conclusions drawing from the social impact assessment in this case study mainly include: iiThe affected residential tenants and small business operators in the Lee Tung Street were mainly from the low and middle income groups; the majority of them were unsatisfied with the renewal process and unable to move back after redevelopment. The property prices within the study area have doubled after renewal due to the improvement of living conditions and public environment. iiImpacts of renewal projects to the nearby street blocks vary in different project periods. During the construction phase, the property prices and rents in the adjacent areas showed no significant fluctuations; on the contrary, the migration rate in this street block displayed an increase trend in the short-term study. The long-term impact of this case need to be further monitored and evaluated. iiIn order to enhance the public satisfaction and project efficiency, construction in phases could be adopted; comprehensive social impact assessment and timely review are also strongly suggested; besides, public engagement and the independency of social service team should be improved as well.