Last of historic dormitories in Shanghai to undergo makeover

Shanghai is set to restore the last batch of dormitories built in the early 1950s into a compound that commemorates the history and urban changes of the city.

A total of 12 buildings located in Changhai new village of Yangpu district form the remaining cluster of such dormitories that were built in 1952 in response to Chairman Mao Zedong's call to provide living spaces to workers.

Each building housed 10 families. Shanghai had built around 2,000 such buildings, most of which were located in the Yangpu and Putou districts.

Most of the buildings were demolished when relocation efforts started in the early 2000s.

According to Sun Hui, Party secretary of the neighborhood, all residents in the buildings have agreed with the relocation plan.

Two buildings, which are relatively well preserved, will be transformed into a museum. The remaining 10 buildings will be restored and used to accommodate office spaces as well as public and commercial amenities.

The local community is currently hosting daily lectures on the history of Shanghai and Yangpu district over the past century. These lectures will last until July 1.