Heritage Conservation and the Search for a New Governing Approach in Hong Kong

Abstract

In this paper I examine the governance of Hong Kong through heritage conservation. The economic approach to governance, a legacy of British colonialism in Hong Kong, has been challenged by the Hong Kong people's attempt to reconstruct a new identity from the bottom up. This attempt has been translated into a public campaign against current heritage preservation policies, including plans to demolish or redevelop heritage buildings—the material bases of identity. Partly as a response to the public's growing awareness of local identity and culture, and partly to avoid an imminent governing crisis, the Hong Kong government has initiated the ‘Revitalising Historic Buildings through Partnership’ Scheme. Focusing on this scheme, I investigate how the Hong Kong government has attempted to tap into heritage resources to develop a new governing approach. Has a more inclusive governing system been developed? Addressing the strength and constraints of the scheme, I provide an initial evaluation of the scheme and its implications for governance.