Crackdown takes aim at renovations in hutong

Police and demolition workers descended on a spot in Beijing known for its bars, restaurants and boutique stores on Tuesday, as the city continues its crackdown on illegal structures.

Urban management crews arrived in the morning along Fangjia Hutong, close to the Lama Temple in central Beijing, and began to brick up the door and windows of buildings earmarked for closure.

Notices placed at each end of the alley stated that the action was aimed at eliminating hidden dangers, improving residential quality and promoting the capital's image.