“Experts at WCSC 2024 emphasize strong public-private collaborations, heritage integration, and transport-oriented development for successful urban regeneration projects worldwide.”
Kuala Lumpur, 10th Sept 2024, 02.25pm – As global urbanization accelerates, the success of urban regeneration efforts depends on robust collaborations between the public and private sectors, noted a speaker during a pre-dialogue session at the 15th International Conference on World Class Sustainable Cities (WCSC 2024).
Moderated by Datin TPr Hjh Noraida Saludin, president of the Malaysian Institute of Planners (MIP), the panelists shared insights with WCSC partners, offering a platform for planners, architects, and developers to discuss ideas and raise questions.
In her presentation, “Adaptive Re-use of Buildings as a Strategy for Urban Regeneration,” Marina Chung, Chief Design Review Officer at Battersea Power Station Development Company, discussed the transformation of London’s Battersea Power Station from its industrial origins to its role as a vibrant community hub with a shopping mall.
Chung emphasized the importance of respecting the site’s history in ensuring the project’s sustainability and success. “Understanding the site’s historical significance was crucial for the longevity and resilience of the regeneration effort,” she noted.
She also highlighted the role of community engagement in the project. The developers focused on keeping local residents informed and involved throughout the process, recognizing the power station’s longstanding impact on the neighborhood and aiming for the new development to be well-received by the community.
Manisha Bhartia, India Business Director at Building Design Partnership (BDP), presented a paper titled “Rebuilding Communities through Urban Regeneration,” where she discussed Liverpool’s successful urban regeneration project.
“Urban regeneration is a gradual process involving collaboration from various stakeholders. It requires a clear vision, private investment, and active community involvement. This project demonstrates the importance of blending heritage with innovation and using flexible long-term strategies that promote both economic growth and social inclusion,” Bhartia explained.
She emphasized the role of collaboration in regeneration projects, citing the Liverpool ONE shopping complex as a prime example. Completed in 2008, it has attracted over 19 million visitors, generated billions in economic activity, created thousands of jobs, and rejuvenated Liverpool as a cultural hub while instilling a sense of community pride.
In his presentation titled “Sustainable Urban Growth through Integrated Transport-Oriented Developments,” Professor Yoshinobu Fukasawa from Kyushu Sangyo University’s Centre for International Affairs discussed Japan’s experience with the transit-oriented development (TOD) model, which focuses on creating well-connected urban hubs.
This model integrates various functions, such as residential complexes, commercial centers, and office spaces, all seamlessly connected to public transportation networks.
Fukasawa emphasized the crucial role of collaboration among different stakeholders, including public transport authorities, commercial entities, and local communities, in the success of such developments.
Successful transit-oriented development (TOD) projects enhance connectivity, attracting diverse businesses and fostering overall growth.
In her closing remarks, Noraida stressed the importance of a long-term vision and a framework that balances public interests with private sector profitability. She suggested considering the land value capture mechanism as a financial tool for integrating development. Although not commonly used in Asia, this strategy could be beneficial for both infrastructure and regeneration projects.
The World Class Sustainable Cities (WCSC) event is held annually, co-organized by the Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association Kuala Lumpur (Rehda KL), the Malaysian Institute of Planners (MIP), and the Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM). This year’s conference is scheduled for Sept 10 at the M Resort & Hotel, Bukit Kiara, Kuala Lumpur.
