Historic urban landscape in Hong Kong : the evolution of the city of Victoria Cantonment

Abstract

Although the field of heritage conservation has evolved over the last fifty years, many places around the world are still needing to update their approach in terms of best practice. This is particularly the case in Asia and certainly includes the dense and dynamic city of Hong Kong. Although Hong Kong has made progress in terms of heritage conservation, it has not yet caught up to the global thinking of the field, such as with the more recent introduction of the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) approach. This thesis outlines and argues that HUL would be very appropriate and beneficial for Hong Kong, particularly at this critical juncture where there is a re-evaluation taking place for how to best practice heritage conservation in this complex and vibrant city.

Before analysing the Historic Urban Landscape, specifically, this thesis reviews the development of the global approach to conservation, generally, in comparison to the state of the field in Hong Kong currently. With this foundation laid, this thesis then traces the history and development of one of the oldest urban areas of Hong Kong, as a case study example of the applicability of the HUL approach locally. The study area is Admiralty, which occupies part of the northern strip of Hong Kong Island, between Central and Wan Chai. This was formerly the British military lands, known as the City of Victoria Cantonment, and was one of the original colonial settlements of Hong Kong. Today, it is part of the economic hub of Hong Kong Island, populated by a dense cityscape of glass and steel skyscrapers nestled amongst a lush green landscape.

Using the Former City of Victoria Cantonment area as a case study, this thesis embarks on the six critical steps of the HUL approach: 1) Map Resources; 2) Reach Consensus; 3) Assess Vulnerability; 4) Integrate; 5) Prioritize Actions; and 6) Establish Local Partnerships. This is to highlight the applicability and adaptability of this new thinking to Hong Kong, to help ensure more informed decisions are made in relation to the area’s future. It is thus hoped that similar such studies of other areas of Hong Kong can be encouraged and a greater adoption of this latest thinking ensured. Ultimately, helping Hong Kong to update and improve its approach to conservation, overall.