Overview of urban planning policy and urban green space system at a national level in China

Abstract

Abstract The present review aims at understanding urban policy frameworks and context on China’s urban green space system at national level. In order to allow critical reflection on the strengths and weaknesses of urban planning policy and green space system. The rationale of this review is to enhance the overall quality of urban environments and to promote urban sustainability, health and improved living. There is a general convergence of policy trajectories indicating that policymakers, planners and professionals have recognized the mutual interdependence of the relationship between green space and the quality and quantity of housing provision. Overall, improvements have been made to better integrate with urban green space and long-term urban management as a whole to create quality living environments. However, both national policy and regulations lack specification on the quality and quantity of green space and are yet standardized, there is not yet useful guidance or criteria on best practice for design for green spaces, and little reference to green space governance or leadership, management norms and abilities.