To create a world-class ecological coastal belt, Shanghai has initiated a global call for proposals to design a V-shaped coastal ecological space.

Applicants are invited to submit their plans, from which six finalists will be selected.

Taking into account Shanghai's geography and natural topography, this initiative seeks to harmonize urban development with environmental preservation. The competition will explore innovative concepts for the planning of ecological coastal space within megacities.

Principles

• Ecological resilience —  Utilizing topographical modifications to enhance landscape design, soil utilization, and safety, creating a more resilient and secure coastline.
• Holistic coordination —  Integrating environmental elements like wetlands, forests, and water bodies to make more efficient use of natural resources.
• Three-dimensional development —  Shifting from a flat, two-dimensional layout to a dynamic, three-dimensional approach that seamlessly integrates land and sea.
• Shared spaces — Linking hydrological engineering with public services to develop a comprehensive recreational network.

Scope

1. General plan

• Covers coastal areas of Pudong New Area, Baoshan, Jinshan, and Fengxian districts.
• Delineated by the first urban arterial road or natural waterways.
• Includes a 218.2-km coastline, 769.4 sq km of land area, and 412.7 sq km of estuarine and marine space.

2. Segmented spatial planning

The coastline is divided into six key areas: South Bank of the Yangtze River Estuary, Eastern Hub Gateway, Nanhui New City, Lin-gang Industrial Zone, Fengxian Bay, and Jinshan Bay Area.

3. Key ecological nodes

Detailed design plans will be developed for 12 key areas, including Jinshan Coast, Fengxian Bay, Dazhi River Estuary, and Luojing Conservation Forest.

Design requirements

• General plan — Establishes a unified land-sea ecological framework, ensuring continuity and integration while highlighting Shanghai's coastal identity.
• Segmented spatial planning — Customizes shoreline usage strategies based on local topography and ecological features.
• Detailed design — For key ecological nodes, proposes specific functional layouts, landscape aesthetics, open spaces, traffic integration, and eco-restoration strategies.

Competition process and prizes

• Prequalification stage (until April 14, 5 pm)

Submission of application materials, with six institutions shortlisted.

• First design phase (April 17 – June 23, 2 pm)

Submission of initial proposals; three finalists selected.

• Second design phase (June 23 – Aug 25, 2 pm, tentative)

Finalization of refined designs; one winning proposal selected.

Awards and announcements

Details on prizes are available on these official platforms: www.cebpubservice.com and www.bkpmzb.com.

Source: Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Planning and Natural Resources