An exploration of gentrification’s negative influences on the social networks of aged neighbourhoods in Hong Kong: A case study of the centre street

Along with the case study of Hong Kong Centre Street, this research seeks to conduct an in-depth investigation in terms of the negative influences of gentrification on residents’ connectivity within the aged neighbourhoods of Hong Kong. Throughout the implementation of various urban redevelopment projects in Hong Kong, the phenomenon of gentrification continues to grow among the majority of existing old neighbourhoods. Apparently, the emergence of the phenomenon of gentrification was intended from the purpose of urban redevelopment because it possesses a positive impact on the neighbourhood by improving the hygiene conditions and renovating the environment through enhancing the worn-out buildings within the neighbourhood. Nevertheless, several connectivity issues were being aroused by the phenomenon of gentrification among the aged neighbourhoods due to its influences have divided the residents into two types of people, newcomers and original, long-term residents, thereby beginning to impact the social networks within these neighbourhoods. Quantitative research was carried out based on the data collected through field observation of the Hong Kong Centre Street, as well as interview probes with 1 original, long-term resident and 1 new resident that are currently living 1in Centre Street as a case study to achieve the objective of exploring the actual effects of gentrification on their social networks in an aged neighbourhood.

The findings show that the process of gentrification possesses several negative influences on the connection of social networks within the aged neighbourhoods, including the disappearance of primitive geographic culture, replacement of the aged buildings, and residential displacement, which will break down the social ties and gradually causing the original social networks to disintegrate.