The role of private sector in built heritage conservation: a case study of Xinhepu, Guangzhou

ABSTRACT The pursuit of cultural heritage conservation is particularly problematic in China as the country has been undergoing substantial changes in its governance processes in the post-reform era. As the regime becomes less authoritarian and more pluralized, a multitude of stakeholders (both state and non-state), are now involved in promoting, constructing, challenging and safeguarding a variety of meanings and values in heritage. This paper focuses the attention on the market sector and examines the extent of market forces in contributing to effective heritage conservation using the designated historic district of Xinhepu in the old residential district of Yuexiu in Guangzhou as a case. The concept of neoliberalism implies a larger role played by the market, which is defined as investment, expertise and innovations from the private operators. Informed by a review of relevant documents and publications, and semi-structured interviews with Guangzhou-based state- and non-stakeholders who have extensive knowledge on managing the historic district, this paper examines the achievements and difficulties of individual private operators face in protecting heritage buildings and historic buildings on the site. The findings suggest that Guangzhou has yet to fully embrace a neoliberal approach to heritage conservation. The conditions of extending market forces to successfully conserve the entire historic district include the formulation of a clear set of regulatory rules and the presence of implementing agencies with enhanced institutional and organizational strength, both of which are regrettably absent in the case.