Blueprint for key areas balances issues, solutions, expert says

The detailed plan for the core area of Beijing is an example of high-level city planning that balances major issues and concrete solutions, according to an expert.

Li Wenzhao, deputy head of the Beijing Academy of Development and Strategy affiliated to Renmin University of China, said the plan strengthens the capital's development direction, including the core area's role, spatial structure, scale of work, and targets.

"It also includes details of construction in the city, such as plans for management of communities, environmental improvements and public welfare," he said.

Beijing is listed as the nation's political, cultural, international exchange, and science and technology center in the capital's overall plan for 2016-35, which was published on Sept 29, 2017.

"The plan balances services for both the central government, which is significant for the whole country, and also for residents living in the area," Li said.

For example, it states that residents will be able to access community-level medical services, libraries and sports facilities within a 15-minute walk of their homes.

"It's innovative in integrating political functions with people's daily life, which, to some extent, demonstrates the requirements and level of city planning in our country," Li said.