Policy zoning method for innovation districts to sustainably develop the knowledge-economy: A case study in Hangzhou, China

Abstract

Innovation districts, as a particular place for knowledge-based urban development strategies, have been praised for promoting sustainable economic developments. They have, however, been criticized for contributing to gentrification, urban inequality, and other problems that hinder sustainability. There has been little research addressing how planners maintain economic sustainability and promote the social and environmental sustainability of innovation districts. This paper takes Hangzhou as a case study, using the policy zoning-a new zoning method based on suitability evaluation-to formulate the applicable place plan for building innovation districts. The results show that the policy zoning can help planners arrange the construction of innovation districts in certain urban areas and take the most targeted measures to improve the sustainability of possible innovation districts. These measures include either enhancing the foundations of the metropolitan area or promoting innovation development by referring to suitability evaluation results. Planning based on policy zoning is of benefit to the sustainability of innovation districts through avoiding the impulsive behavior of policymakers, as well as promoting the better distribution of development achievements among the people, rather than concentrating on land developers and stakeholders who pursue maximum profits.