This chapter presents a study which assessed the feasibility of applying a new methodology for the survey and assessment of historic buildings based on applying state-of-the-art image processing. This has the potential to facilitate frequent surveys with minimal disruption to the general public in cities. The paper also presents the results of a collaborative and cross-disciplinary research project aiming to automate data capture and analysis techniques for conservation of stone facades. Image processing techniques have been implemented in a wide range of areas such as medicine, automation, security and defence. The chapter aims to develop new image processing techniques to support automated analysis of stone masonry facades while identifying the different materials used as well as pathologies. In order to explore the possibility of applying state-of- the-art image processing to the challenge of surveying historic buildings, one case study was selected and surveyed using two different methods.

Post-industrial waterfronts have become key arenas of urban transformation, where heritage, public space and social equity intersect. This study examined the Xuhui Waterfront in Shanghai under the ‘One River, One Creek’ initiative, which converted former industrial land into a continuous riverfront corridor of parks and cultural venues. The research aimed to evaluate whether this large-scale renewal enhanced social equity or produced new forms of exclusion. A tripartite analytical framework of distributive, procedural and recognitional justice was applied, combining spatial mapping, remote-sensing analysis of vegetation and heat exposure, housing price-to-income ratio assessment, and policy review from 2015 to 2024. The results showed that the continuity of the riverfront, increased greenery and adaptive reuse of industrial structures improved accessibility, environmental quality and cultural enjoyment. However, housing affordability became increasingly polarised, indicating emerging gentrification and generational inequality. This study concluded that this dual outcome reflected the fiscal dependency of state-led renewal on land-lease revenues and high-end development. It suggested that future waterfront projects could adopt financially sustainable yet inclusive models, such as incremental phasing, public–private partnerships and guided self-renewal, to better reconcile heritage conservation, public-space creation and social fairness.

Purpose: This study aims to develop an integrated framework for the evaluation and mapping of industrial heritage values, with the goal of supporting conservation and revitalisation efforts in rapidly transforming urban contexts. The research focuses on Hangzhou, China, as a representative case of post-industrial cities facing increasing development pressure on heritage resources. Design/methodology/approach: The study constructs a multi-criteria appraisal system incorporating architectural characteristics, historical value, physical integrity, environmental context and social perception. Analytical hierarchy process (AHP) is applied to weight the criteria, based on expert consultation, and geographic information system (GIS) is used to spatialise the assessment outcomes. This integration enables value-based mapping, supporting sustainable heritage management and revitalisation strategies. Findings: The findings reveal a spatial clustering of high-value industrial heritage sites in specific zones, reflecting both historical development patterns and recent urban transformation. The study demonstrates that the combined AHP-GIS approach effectively identifies conservation priorities and potential revitalisation zones, enabling more targeted and context-sensitive planning interventions. Research limitations/implications: The study is limited to one slicing context at a time, and weighting results reflect selected experts’ perspectives. Broader stakeholder engagement may enhance generalisability. Originality/value: Unlike previous studies that apply AHP and GIS separately or at macro scales, this research introduces a spatially disaggregated and context-responsive framework for heritage value appraisal at the site level. The study's methodological integration allows for fine-grained mapping of conservation priorities, providing a more actionable tool for urban heritage planning.

Since its excavation in 2018, Zhouqiao Archaeological Site in Kaifeng has been highly valued. Among the discoveries from the site, the Ming Dynasty silt cultural layer is particularly important as it evidences the great flood in 1642. The unique quality of silt is leading serious cracking and local collapse. It is necessary and urgent to implement research on the soil properties of the Ming Dynasty silt cultural layer. As a result, microcracks are considered as potential cracking points. The soil of the silted cultural layer is confirmed as low liquid limit silty clay, with low permeability and high content of calcium carbonate and organic matters. The combined influence of these factors makes the soil seriously cracking. The study also explored the source of calcium carbonate in the layer, building a base to understand how calcium carbonate form inside the silted cultural layers of Kaifeng’s other archaeological sites.