China's Greater Bay Area: Agglomeration, External Economies, Governance and Urbanization

The Greater Bay Area (GBA) is a mega-city region in China that is known for its technological, economic, social, and cultural importance. This textbook by Patchell explains the region's rise, innovation, and resilience by integrating agglomeration concepts with its distinctive features. It discusses the early development, regional strengths, governance, and consequences of the GBA's agglomeration for land allocation, planning, social structure, mobility, sustainable development, and resilience. The book is ideal for courses on the GBA, comparative courses on agglomeration and large-scale urban development, and for people interested in understanding urban processes and China.

Format: Hardback
Length: 290 pages
Publication date: 31 October 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Greater Bay Area (GBA), formerly known as the Pearl River Delta, stands as one of the world's largest mega-city regions and a pivotal hub for technology, economy, society, and culture in China. In his book, "The Rise of the Greater Bay Area: Agglomeration, Innovation, and Resilience," author Patchell delves into the factors contributing to the region's growth, innovation, and resilience. By integrating agglomeration concepts with the unique characteristics of the GBA, Patchell provides a comprehensive understanding of its development.

The book explores the early stages of the GBA's growth, highlighting the mix of indigenous and external investments and expertise that propelled its transformation from process manufacturing. It sheds light on the regional strengths in clusters, transportation networks, and regional innovation systems that have shaped its trajectory. Multi-level governance plays a crucial role in balancing national directives, municipal autonomy, and regional complementarities within the GBA.

The consequences of the GBA's agglomeration on land allocation, planning, social structure, mobility, communities, sustainable development, and resilience for the future are examined in detail. The book is written in an accessible yet rigorous manner, making it suitable for courses on the GBA, comparative courses on agglomeration and large-scale urban development, and individuals seeking a deeper understanding of urban processes and China.

The Greater Bay Area's rapid growth and development have significant implications for China and the global economy. As a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and talent, the GBA has the potential to drive economic growth, create job opportunities, and improve living standards for its residents. However, the challenges associated with such rapid urbanization, such as land scarcity, environmental degradation, and social inequality, also need to be addressed.

The book offers valuable insights into the policies, strategies, and interventions that can promote sustainable and inclusive growth in the GBA. It highlights the importance of collaboration between different levels of government, the private sector, and civil society organizations in addressing regional challenges and fostering social cohesion.

In conclusion, "The Rise of the Greater Bay Area: Agglomeration, Innovation, and Resilience" is a comprehensive and insightful book that provides valuable insights into the development of the GBA and its implications for China and the world. By examining the region's unique features and challenges, the book offers a comparative approach to mega-cities and mega-regions, contributing to our understanding of urbanization processes and the future of cities around the globe.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367462932