By outdoor-nature-child.com On October 18, 2024, an engaging theme sharing event titled “Updating Industrial Heritage” took place in Chongqing, sparking active discussions among industry professionals. We explored the concept of industrial relics, the current challenges related to their renewal, and potential international collaborations.
“What constitutes industrial heritage?” begins Li Shen, the head of the Western China Strategic Advisory Department at Savills. He emphasizes that while industrial relics include both tangible and intangible assets, the focus should increasingly be on updating the intangible aspects, which he believes are oftentimes overlooked.
Professor He Zhiya, honorary chair of the Historical Cultural City Protection Academic Committee of the Chongqing Urban Planning Society, adds another layer to the conversation. He notes the critical need to differentiate between heritage and relics. Industrial relics, according to He, differ significantly from traditional heritage and artifacts—they typically encompass vast physical spaces, large structures, substantial financial investments, and pose significant maintenance challenges. “We can’t treat these relics like precious historical artifacts that must be preserved in their original state. Instead, we need to create development zones and coordination areas for their management,” he argues.
He also suggests that integrating industrial heritage into the modern economic and social fabric of the city, aligning it with market demands, is crucial. There have already been examples of successful collaboration between China and the UK in this domain, including the Chongqing Industrial Museum.
Li Shen further addresses some of the pain points associated with traditional industrial heritage projects. He observes that many existing renewal projects suffer from rigidity and limited functionality, failing to maximize their value or stimulate a holistic improvement of surrounding urban functions and industrial ecosystems. Furthermore, there’s a lack of multi-dimensional and sustainable development strategies that cater to diverse age groups and operational needs throughout the project’s lifecycle. “Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach to planning, investment, and operational management. It’s essential to accurately assess the context and market demands of these projects, ensuring a high-quality and precise alignment with project goals,” he concludes.