A review of urban waterfront regeneration in global Asian port cities and the sustainability of their development

Abstract

Urban waterfronts have always influenced the development of port cities, offering defence, trade, transport, industry and recreation. These functions are often changing, which transforms the delicate interface between a city and its waterside. Technological advancements in the 20th century left many waterfront areas derelict and detached from the city, which has led to major regeneration projects worldwide. The aim of this review is to highlight fundamental concerns regarding rapid urban growth in the asian port cities — Dubai, Hong Kong, Mumbai, Shanghai, Singapore and Tokyo — while providing an understanding of what constitutes a successful approach to waterfront renewal. The far more established European and North American regeneration models offer a valuable insight into waterfront development, and suggest how Asian cities might be able to negotiate the complex range of sustainable issues that are inherent within urban development. In conclusion, the application of Western sustainable development methods is discussed, with suggestions on how more social and environmental issues can be introduced into predominantly economically-driven Asian waterfront development.