Research on the reuse path of the Third Front Construction Heritage’s  stock space in China based on value assessment

Abstract

The third-front construction, an integral component of socialist urban and rural development during the initial three decades of the new China, has resulted in a significant surplus of unused stock space following four decades of contraction and progress. The exploration of its reuse value in the contemporary era holds immense theoretical and practical significance. By focusing on 113 factories and mines associated with third-front construction in Hubei Western, this study employs qualitative field research and statistical analysis to assess their layout and condition characteristics. The concept of 'smart shrinkage' is employed to summarise the reuse value of the stock space derived from third-front construction. In addition, the intrinsic and extrinsic value of the reuse value assessment system is evaluated through the implementation of the minimum cumulative resistance (MCR) model, network analysis, and cluster analysis. Finally, a proposed pathway for the reuse of the stock space derived from third-front construction is presented. The study revealed several key findings. ① The plants and mines associated with third-front construction in Hubei Western exhibit a signficant concentration in certain areas, while also displaying a dispersed layout on a smaller scale. These establishments rely on regional transportation infrastructure, thereby forming a corridor-like structure. However, due to the implementation of relocation policies, idleness and inefficiency have become prevalent issues. ② The reuse value of the stock space derived from third-front construction exhibits distinct typological characteristics, primarily influenced by its non-urban and non-rural layout. This value can be categorised into three types: heritage, asset, and ecological. ③ The third-front construction plants and mines in Hubei Western comprise 27 heritage reuse types, 30 asset reuse types, and 56 ecological reuse types. Finally, the study proposes several measures to facilitate the transformation and revitalisation of the third-front construction stock space. For instance, the Third Front Construction Heritage group intends to initiate the conversion of property rights for the purpose of reducing transaction costs and promoting the transformation of the Third Front Construction Stock Space Association. Additionally, efforts will be made to restore the natural ecosystem of the Third Front construction area, with the aim of achieving rewilding and other dimensions of the proposed pathway. These findings provide valuable theoretical and methodological support for the sustainable development of the third-front construction area and the revitalisation of its stock space.