New homes, schools and clinics

As part of the government's efforts to build Qingdao Traffic Business District and improve living conditions for residents, more than 5,000 households near the newly built Qingdao North Railway Station were relocated to new high-rise apartments.

Another 2,000 families were given cash compensation to buy new houses in other places, according to the local authority.

The relocation project, which began in 2011, is the largest of its kind in Qingdao's history and nearly 6,000 apartments in 32 buildings have been built.

Several public service facilities including kindergartens, schools, community clinics and elderly homes were also built. The government used its utmost discretion in handling the demolition and relocation of these households and tried its best to avoid creating a negative impact on people's lives. Employees at its office spent a lot of time communicating with residents to address their concerns.

A retired worker, who identified himself as Song, said his family had lived in a 60-square-meter bungalow for tens of years and had wanted a new home for a long time.

"My old house was very shabby, we had to endure scorching heat in summertime and freezing cold in winter. Now we have a new apartment that is spacious and much more livable," he said.

"Moreover, the roads are better than before and there are kindergartens, schools and hospitals near the residential compound, which resolved our worries about schooling and seeing a doctor."

A large cultural and recreational center, which will include a painting club, ping-pong, billiards, a gymnasium and a swimming pool, is due to be put into service soon.

Well-known property companies, like Vanke and Poly Real Estate, have noticed the abundant opportunities in the business district and are due to establish their presence in the area.

Zhu Huisong, general manager of Yuexiu Property's Qingdao branch, said his company was interested in investing in the business district because of its outstanding transport network and sophisticated public service system.

"Our customers will enjoy convenient commuting and comprehensive services after they move into the area," Zhu said.

(China Daily 11/12/2014 page12)