Building better cities: The role of public-private partnerships in urban regeneration

• “Urban regeneration is a process that takes time and involves multiple stakeholders coming together. It requires a clear vision, private investment and community engagement.”

KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 9): As the world grapples with rapid urbanisation, the success of urban regeneration projects hinges on strong partnerships between public and private sectors, pointed out a speaker in a pre-dialogue session of the 15th International Conference on World Class Sustainable Cities (WCSC 2024).

Moderated by Malaysian Institute of Planners (MIP) president Datin TPr Hjh Noraida Saludin, the panellists shared their views exclusively with WCSC partners and provided an opportunity for planners, architects and developers to ask questions and exchange ideas.

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A public-private partnership for urban success: Lessons from Battersea Power Station

In her presentation today, titled “Adaptive Re-use of Buildings as a Strategy for Urban Regeneration”,  Battersea Power Station Development Company chief design review officer Marina Chung explored the journey of the Battersea Power Station in London, the UK, from its industrial past to its current status as a vibrant and thriving community hub anchored by a shopping mall.

“Our first approach is having a sensitive appreciation for the site's history. Because, for us, it has been so essential in ensuring the longevity and the resilience of the regeneration of the site,” she said.

Chung pointed out that community engagement was a cornerstone of the regeneration project. The developers were committed to keeping the local community informed and involved throughout the process. They recognised that the power station had always been a significant presence in the neighbourhood, and they wanted to ensure that the new development would be embraced by the residents.

A blueprint for urban renewal: The Liverpool model

Building Design Partnership (BDP) India business director Manisha Bhartia presented a paper titled "Rebuilding Communities through Urban Regeneration". In it, she explored the story of Liverpool's successful regeneration project.

“Urban regeneration is a process that takes time and involves multiple stakeholders coming together. It requires a clear vision, private investment and community engagement. This regeneration story emphasises the significance of blending heritage with innovation and adopting flexible long-term strategies that encompass both economic growth and social inclusion,” she said.

She highlighted the importance of collaboration in successful regeneration projects. For instance, the Liverpool ONE shopping complex in Liverpool, the UK, has been a resounding success. Since its completion in 2008, the project has attracted over 19 million visitors, generated billions in economic activity, and created thousands of jobs. More importantly, it has fostered a sense of community pride and revitalised Liverpool as a cultural destination.

Creating well-connected cities: The benefits of transit-oriented developments

In his presentation titled “Sustainable Urban Growth through Integrated Transport-Oriented Developments”, Kyushu Sangyo University Centre International Affairs specially appointed professor Yoshinobu Fukasawa shared the experience of the transit-oriented development (TOD) model in Japan, which emphasises the creation of well-connected urban centres.

This model integrates various functions alongside public transport networks. These functions can include condominiums, commercial centres and office spaces, all seamlessly connected to transportation infrastructure

He highlighted the importance of collaboration between different stakeholders, including public transport authorities, commercial entities and local communities.

Successful TOD projects facilitate movement and connections, attracting a variety of businesses and promoting overall growth.

At the closing, Noraida emphasised the need for a long-term vision and a framework that prioritises public interests while recognising the importance of private sector profitability. She suggested exploring the potential of the land value capture mechanism as a financial integration tool. This mechanism, while not widely used in Asia, could be a valuable strategy for both labour and regeneration projects.

WCSC is a yearly event co-organised by the Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association Federal Territory Kuala Lumpur (Rehda KL), MIP and the Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM). This year’s conference will be held on Sept 10 (Tue) at the M Resort & Hotel, Bukit Kiara, Kuala Lumpur.

EdgeProp Malaysia will be supporting WCSC 2024 as a media partner. Do visit https://wcsckl.com/ to register and learn more.

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