Classical Shanghai area fueling debate

Controversy in Shanghai surrounding the preservation of a typical shikumen neighborhood - a residence block with courtyards and gates featuring stone frames - has shed light on the city's resolve to protect its historic buildings.

But experts are calling for more transparency to ensure public support.

There was a public outcry in early January when watchful citizens posted photos online of the Shangxianfang neighborhood being partially leveled. Two of its four rows of buildings tucked away in the city's commercial hub suddenly disappeared.