[Photo provided by the 2024 Shanghai Urban Renewal Pioneer Conference]

Shanghai has initiated an ambitious urban renewal program that extends beyond residential improvements to encompass commercial, industrial, public centers, and open spaces, according to a city urban planning official.

Speaking at the 2024 Shanghai Urban Renewal Pioneer Conference on April 13, Xu Mingqian, deputy director of the Shanghai Municipal Planning and Natural Resources Bureau, outlined the city's comprehensive approach to research and planning for five types of renewal projects. This initiative will result in the compilation of a five-year renewal plan, specifying tasks for the upcoming year.

An estimated 300,000 aging residential units are slated for renewal over the next five years. Additionally, an action plan for commercial buildings from this year to 2027 will target approximately 40 concentrated commercial building units across the city, according to Xu.

Shanghai has developed an index system for the comprehensive performance evaluation of industrial land, completing the initial evaluation round. Xu emphasized that the city will continue to refine this index system throughout the year.

In addition, urban renewal efforts will integrate initiatives such as the construction of "15-minute community living circles" to enhance the functions and spatial quality of communities and public spaces, particularly in key areas along the Huangpu River and Suzhou Creek, Xu added.

Shanghai has demonstrated a strong commitment to urban renewal in recent years. Last year, the city introduced the "Three Professionals" collaborative mechanism, involving responsible planners, architects, and evaluators in urban renewal projects. This mechanism has been implemented in 10 pilot projects, including the renovation of 141 buildings near the Bund and the greater Wusong area. Xu indicated that this collaborative approach will become standard practice in the city's upcoming comprehensive urban renewal initiative.

Source: Wnhui Daily, Xinmin Daily