Recreational second home governance in China: Policy implementation and structural framework

Abstract

The current growth of individualisation, rising middle classes and diversified mobility have been significant in the development of theoretical approaches to mobility in China. Recreational second homes, intended for consumption purposes including health, retirement and lifestyle, are growing in amenity destinations. This is significantly driven by tourism development, land economy and ambitions for growth from multiple governmental scales, and it is closely linked with the wider context of migration, housing, equity and sustainability. Despite the scale and quantity of second home growth, governance development is lagging behind. The current urban governance structure is formulated for a static and immobile society rather than responding to a rapidly changing and fluid society. Second home ownership therefore poses significant challenges for governing with respect not only to managing the balance of permanent and temporary residents, but also the dynamics of political representation, sustainable neighbourhood development and destination communities. Yet, no research has been carried out addressing this emerging and important challenge in China. This chapter seeks a contextual understanding of how frameworks at multiple levels are entwined and articulated in the locale and demonstrates the differentiated political schema and power structures motivating the development of second home migration and challenges to governance structures. A case study is conducted in Sanya, a city in Hainan province, where in-depth analysis examines the conflict and negotiation of mobility governance, political regime and economic development strategies. Further investigation will look into the special trajectory of development and the neighbourhood impacts of second homes.