Dynamics and discrepancies in rural–urban village regeneration: A case study of a coastal community in Hong Kong SAR, China
Village revitalization has garnered significant attention in urbanized regions such as Hong Kong, where researchers and practitioners are actively responding to the rural revitalization movement inspired by China’s policies to enhance agricultural activities, preserve cultural heritage, and stimulate economic development. This article examines the historical, cultural, and ecological significance of Shui Hau village, a coastal farming, and rural–urban community, alongside the implementation of novel village regeneration initiatives proposed by the authors. The primary aim is to illustrate the mechanisms behind these initiatives, explore the dynamics between stakeholders and researchers, and analyze the dual role of researchers as both trusted outsiders and effective collaborators. These insights are intended to inform future practices and recommend context-specific policy changes. Adopting a case study approach, this article contributes to the growing body of qualitative rural studies in the wider Asian context. Challenges relevant to village regeneration, including land boundaries, the Small House Policy, and planning and conservation regulations under the existing legal framework, are documented. As part of a broader action research initiative, three government-funded projects were proposed and implemented to revitalize cultural values: (i) Rediscovering traditions and rituals through tactical interventions, (ii) restoring the grain store as a farming cooperative, and (iii) transforming the stone house into a living culture cooperative. This retrospective review reveals key dynamics and discrepancies, including intricate land ownership issues, unspecific regulations, loose governance, and mismatches between expectations and actual outcomes. From a practitioner’s perspective, systemic changes at multiple levels are recommended to better engage stakeholders and facilitate more effective countryside regeneration.
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