Abstract
Nanjing is an economic hub of the Yangtze River Delta, and one of the most important industrial bases in modern China. During the processes of change of urban spatial structure and optimization of industrial structure, the old industrial zones developed in downtown areas before ‘reform and opening up’ have experienced continuing regeneration. More and more companies have moved to industrial parks in the suburbs, while the former factories have been developed for new functions including housing, services or creative industries. These changes of function have had an enormous impact on the city’s economy, land use, transportation system and population distribution. This article aims to provide an understanding of the processes of formation and renewal of Nanjing’s old industrial zones. It discusses the background and planning strategies as well as the effects of the redevelopment of these industrial zones at different historical stages. It draws general conclusions about the process of renewal, and highlights some resulting problems such as work-home separation and loss of job opportunities in downtown areas.