Q: What is the first step in formulating the atmosphere for the revitalization and redevelopment of the city center?
A: Provide an opportunity to discuss on the grand plan and vision with the stakeholders.
Aged buildings pose challenges for redevelopment in Fukuoka City's central areas, but several projects are revitalizing them. Utilizing the National Strategic Special Zone system, the city government recognizes the contributions of rebuilt structures, giving eased regulations and bonuses and facilitated large-scale development, considering pedestrian-friendly spaces, art installations, and infection control measures. Area management councils are essential in advocating for area updates as a bridge between the community and the administration.
City Center Development Planning in Fukuoka City
In the heart of Fukuoka City, many buildings aged over 50 years stand, posing challenges for redevelopment and modernization. However, presently, revitalization efforts are underway in core areas like Tenjin and Hakata. These endeavors are propelled by large-scale projects such as the Tenjin Big Bang and Hakata Connected, incorporating private sector demands alongside the utilization of the National Strategic Special Zone system introduced during the Abe administration.
Under this system, flexible redevelopment became feasible. Introduced in 2013 and with Fukuoka City designated as a special zone in 2014, concerns regarding floor area reduction due to building volume ratios under the Building Standards Law were addressed, and significant relaxations were made in height restrictions and volume ratios under aviation laws.
Recognition by the Fukuoka City government that rebuilt structures reflecting functions and societal trends contribute to the city and region's development and vibrancy led to bonuses being granted and regulations eased, enabling even larger-scale development. This facilitated the replacement of old buildings with earthquake-resistant, high-value-added structures. Key focuses include the creation of pedestrian-friendly spaces, placement of art installations, utilization of flowers and greenery, consideration for universal design, and implementation of infection control measures such as ventilation and non-contact systems.
Area management councils comprising landowners and local representatives, with the city government as members, have been actively advocating and facilitating area-wide functional updates and collaborative activities, promoting vibrancy and safety in town development. These councils serve as conduits for community voices, conveying area needs to the administration. Representative councils include the Tenjin Meiji-dori Avenue Development Council, We Love Tenjin Council, and the Hakata Town Planning Promotion Council. These town development councils play a major role in contributing to the development of these areas.
[Case ID: Urban Policy UP-02]