Challenges in Reusing China's Industrial Heritage

This article presents a research study focused on the challenges faced in the reuse of China's industrial heritage, framed within the existing official policy framework. It outlines how China's rapid industrialization has led to a significant accumulation of industrial heritage, which is crucial for urban renewal and cultural continuity. Despite strong policy support, many projects fail to achieve their objectives due to operational challenges. The study systematically analyzes the weaknesses in the policy framework, identifying issues such as the lack of specialized national regulations, inefficiencies at provincial levels, and constraints at municipal levels. It details how conflicting goals among various stakeholders lead to value clashes, resulting in structural contradictions in preservation and development efforts. The article discusses the complexities of managing industrial heritage, highlighting the need for a balanced approach between preservation and adaptive reuse, and emphasizes the importance of addressing systemic issues that hinder effective implementation.