CULTURAL PLANNING AND SUSTAINABILITY IN CITIES: A CASE OF WEST KOWLOON IN HONG KONG

This study aims to explore the context of cultural planning in Hong Kong with reference to the case of West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD). Based on theoretical review and field-based study, the urban form, local characters, culture, and sustainability context of Hong Kong specifically the West Kowloon and its adjoining areas have been discussed extensively. Documentary research and thematic analysis on local culture, identity, urban form and cultural planning are conducted. This study emphasizes on the significance of cultural planning in contemporary urban context, and analyses the need of cultural planning in cities and its contribution towards sustainability. It suggests considering the unique culture, heritage, identity and urban form of Hong Kong in the design of new cultural urban spaces, such as West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD). It also highlights on the need of inclusive community participation in the planning, designing and implementation of the urban development projects. This study is novel as it has attempted to connect future developments trends based on historical archives. The study signifies the future cares should be taken for sustainable development with high concern on cultural identity