ZHANG Ze, XIAO Yuyao, LI Ziyue

Keywords： Density; Re-urbanization; Urban Densification; Compact City; Soft Densification; Bristol

Abstract：

In the process of re-urbanization since the end of the 20th century, major cities in Western European countries have generally experienced urban densification, to improve the inventory space under the constraints of external expansion. Unlike compact cities, urban densification is a widely implemented planning policy in Western cities and has formed different patterns in governance practices. Based on distinguishing the differences and linkages between urban densification and the compact city concept, this paper introduces the performance controversies and implementation models of densification policies in major cities in Western European countries. We then focus on the case of Bristol, the UK, to illustrate the different modes of densification and the important role of soft densification. Correspondingly, under the rigid constraints of urban development boundaries and the financial balance of urban renewal, Chinese cities are also facing the pressure of densification of inventory space. Institutional supply and transitioning from a focus on hard densification to a focus on soft densification, thus effectively stimulating the consumption vitality of the downtown district, should be the key exploration content of future planning reforms.

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