"Micro-regeneration": Toward small-scale, heritage-oriented, and participatory redevelopment in China

Area of Science:

• Urban Studies
• Urban Planning
• Cultural Heritage

Background:

• Extensive literature documents large-scale property-led redevelopment globally and in China.
• Recent policy shifts in China emphasize small-scale redevelopment, heritage preservation, and public participation.

Purpose of the Study:

• Critically examine the shift towards micro-regeneration (weigaizao) in Guangzhou.
• Analyze the drivers and implications of this policy change in urban regeneration.

Main Methods:

• Case study of Guangzhou's "micro-regeneration" pilot project.
• Analysis of policy shifts and their impact on urban redevelopment.

Main Results:

• Policy shift driven by social contestations from large-scale redevelopment.
• Heritage preservation fuels creative industries, transforming neighborhoods into commercial/tourist zones.
• Public participation is encouraged, but resident influence remains limited.

Conclusions:

• Micro-regeneration represents a practice of "worlding" cities within China's institutional framework.
• The state employs new governance approaches to address urban redevelopment challenges.