Governance of the urban landscape : a case study of Hong Kong

Abstract

The urban landscape of Hong Kong is fascinating with the high density development, spectacular skyline and highly efficient public transportation system. The urban landscape of the CBD of Hong Kong is characterized by a dense, irregular and organic urban form, building stock of mixed ages, occasional historic buildings and limited vegetation. The new urban landscape on the shores of Victoria Harbour is characterized by megastructure of super blocks occupying massive areas with podium structures disconnecting the building from the surrounding with high-rise towers on top of it. Review of literature has shown that the pro-growth development and laisse-faire governance approach of the government has led to urban issues such as worsen congestion and demolishment of clusters of culturally significant buildings. There is currently limited research on governance of urban landscape in Hong Kong. There is currently no research viewing the urban landscape of the city as a single entity for study. This study aims to fill in the research gap by a holistic and comprehensive analysis of the urban landscape and assess the governance of the urban landscape in Hong Kong. This study aims to understand the governance of the urban landscape by identifying the implications of different plans, regulations, and policies in shaping the urban landscape of Hong Kong. An overview of the governance of urban landscape is provided by reviewing the policies, plans and strategies. In order to assess the governance of the urban landscape, the study retrieved data from the Buildings Department to track and trace the development pattern of the urban landscape in the past 25 years. The investigation of the development pattern of the urban landscape in the CBD between 1991 and 2014 demonstrates the general picture of the urban landscape. A more detailed understanding of the urban landscape is revealed through two case studies. Strategic plans have been directing the development of the city, setting plans for reclamation works and expansion of CBD. The loose development control framework also brought megastructures to appear in the city. While the inner urban fabric is fragmented by the rapid urban redevelopment, the community network and economy is dismantled. The urban landscape of Hong Kong becomes denser with skyscrapers blocking the ridgelines and peaks in the backdrop. The cultural, social, and aesthetic values of the urban landscape are also important to the sustainable development of the city. In the end of the study, recommendations are provided to facilitate a sustainable urban landscape and improvements in the urban built environment.