The Landscape Catalytic Effect of Urban Waterfronts—A Case Study of the Huangpu River in Shanghai

Waterfronts are some of the most well known public spaces that can catalyse urban changes, yet their benefits have not been systematically explored. This study investigates the potential benefits of waterfront regeneration for the subsequent development of the wider surrounding areas and whether these benefits encompass a broader range of influences. Taking an extensive linear catalyst, the Huangpu River waterfronts in Shanghai, as an example, the catalytic effect of each waterfront section was investigated, visualised, compared and discussed within and across different sections and catalytic influential aspects. A multi-method approach driven by multi-sourced big data was used in this study, and the analysis was carried out at two scales: the waterfront area (the catalyst area) and its surroundings of influence (the areas affected by the catalyst area). The research findings suggest that the landscape catalytic effect is more pronounced in the catalyst area itself than in the surrounding areas affected by the catalyst area. Such effects also vary across waterfront sections, and the western bank of the Huangpu River was more obviously influenced than the eastern bank. The possible reasons for these differences may be related to the area’s original function, development limitations and available resources. This study also provides evidence indicating that the relationship between the catalyst and the spatial, social and economic aspects of changes it induces is one of ongoing and mutually supportive interaction. The outcomes of this study include a framework composed of 14 indicators that can disclose the depth and progress of a catalytic effect facilitated by the landscape, as well as implications for the decision-making process in the urban regeneration agenda that centres around waterfronts.