Spatial change under the institution of land rights: A research note on the double-tragedy in the Wanhua Railway Station redevelopment zone, Taipei

Equalization of land rights is a noble goal for societies to pursue. The reform of farmland to the tiller has significantly transformed Taiwan’s agricultural economy and paved the way for rapid industrialization. Nevertheless, market-led equalization of urban land rights may result in unfavorable effects that prevent scarce urban land resources from optimal utilization. The research of Wanhua Railway Station redevelopment zone has discovered the phenomenon of the double-tragedy of the commons and anti-commons. Fragmented land rights hamper redevelopment efforts and induce illegal construction instead. Double-tragedy leads to social segregation that amplifies inequality between urban neighborhoods.