DECIDING ON THE MEASURES IMPLEMENTATION FOR RIVERFRONT FLOOD RESILIENCE ACTOR MAPPING AND NETWORK ANALYSIS

Abstract

Riverfront redevelopments pose significant challenges in achieving effective flood resilience. The success of riverfront design relies on a strategic combination of measures. Levees, floodwalls, and drainage systems are known as structural measures and help mitigate immediate flood risks, while non-structural approaches, such as land-use planning, policy frameworks, and community engagement, focus on offering long-term, adaptive strategies. Over the past three decades, developments in Hamburg, Germany, have integrated structural and non-structural measures into their flood management strategies. Even though there are exemplary models of effective riverfront design in Germany, there is a lack of research regarding the specific design decisions that contribute to their success. Additionally, the roles and influences of human and non-human actors in shaping flood-resilient designs are insufficiently researched. This paper investigates the actors involved in the implementation of either structural or non-structural interven tions for flood resilience in the riverfront redevelopment in HafenCity in Hamburg. Using actor mapping and visual network analysis, the research identifies key human and non-human actors involved in the process. Furthermore, the mapping examined their influence on decision-making in the redevelopment of the riverfront. Actor mapping and visual network analysis provide valuable insights into the strength and type of relationships that shape the development and implementation of flood resilience strategies. Data planning documents, project documentation, and regulatory frameworks was used to construct an actor-network map. The analysis points out that HafenCity’s flood strategy relies on a three-part core: the City of Hamburg, which sets the rules; HafenCity Hamburg GmbH enforces the rules in every land sale; and the Warft (elevated ground) model that translates law into concrete defence works. This paper provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the interplay of actors that influence the use of structural or non-structural measures for flood resilience in riverfront redevelopment in HafenCity.