The development of small cities and the problems they face

During my time in the UK, my understanding of urban design has deepened again. Previously, my understanding of urban design was often only at the design level. I thought that once the design was done, it was over. I didn’t need to think about what comes after. But after studying for a long time, I realised that the maintenance of the site after the design is completed is also crucial. It doesn’t matter how unique a space or building or landscape you have designed. After a period of time, there is a risk that it will become derelict. This is because these areas are subject to transformation over time. There are many factors that can lead to this transformation, not only in relation to the economy, but also in relation to social changes in the local population and even in the psychological activities of people that can cause sites to fall into disuse. Jacobs, J. (1961)

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As an example, this was the case in my home city of Bengbu. In the beginning, large parks and cultural squares were built, and the surrounding areas were supported by a number of commercial, cultural and various complex facilities. The designs were unique and functional. However, some of these areas have fallen into disuse over the years. One of the main reasons for this is that many young people are attracted to work and live in the surrounding cities. Many people do not have enough time to go to these areas for various activities. There are many elderly people and children left who are not fit to do many activities. As a result, the actual number of people using these areas is much lower than the number of people they were designed to serve.

I think this is a challenge not only for my home town but also for many small cities in their development. So how to solve such problems?

Some of the ways I have come up with are to use macro thinking when planning as much as possible. The second is to take as long a view as possible when planning. For example, when planning, plan for 20 or 30 years from now. This will allow for a more three-dimensional approach to urban design.

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If my hometown is designed with the idea that young people are moving to the big cities in large numbers, then it should create a certain number of jobs in the area. A certain number of jobs should be created. For example, work with companies to build more factories or create financial or service facilities to provide some jobs. And create both low-end and high-end jobs to retain a diverse population. It is also important to consider transport to make the city more accessible. In this way, the original design of the unique area will have a longer life and will not easily fall into disuse.

References:

Jacobs, J. (1961). The death and life of great American cities. New York: Modern Library.

https://www.archdaily.cn/cn/777395/vincent-callebautshe-ji-zi-gei-zi-zu-xing-cheng-shi-de-wei-lai-gui-hua/5508a7f2e58eced01a000021-concept-sketch