The Hongqiao International Central Business District boasts a comprehensive transportation hub. [Photo provided to en.shhqcbd.gov.cn]
Shanghai recently announced a draft plan for turning the Hongqiao International Central Business District (CBD) and its surrounding areas into a demonstration zone for the development of an international gateway hub of openness.
Covering approximately 535 square kilometers, the planned zone centers around the 151-sq-km Hongqiao CBD and extends outward to incorporate its surrounding sub-districts and towns such as Hongqiao town, Gumeilu sub-district, and Meilong town. A resident population of about 3.41 million is expected by 2035.
According to the CBD's administrative committee, the draft plan has been meticulously crafted to enhance the Hongqiao CBD's unique advantages as an international business hub, a new platform for global trade, and a comprehensive transportation hub.
Through a new development paradigm, the plan seeks to transform the zone into a model of international openness, a dynamic hub for technological innovation, an efficient integrated transportation nexus, a green urban development area, and a model for a smart, low-carbon future city.
The core area of the CBD will serve as a key resource allocation hub, enhancing connectivity between the Hongqiao Transport Hub, the business core, and the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai).
The plan also outlines the development of two urban sub-centers: the Hongqiao Sub-center and the Xinzhuang Sub-center. The former will concentrate on high-end commerce, exhibitions, and trade functions, while the latter will focus on cultivating administrative, cultural, and commercial functions to form a regional comprehensive service center.
Ecological preservation was emphasized in the plan, which promises to protect and enhance the distinctive water network system and regional characteristics of western Shanghai, envisioning a harmonious ecological city where wetlands integrate into urban life, and blue-green corridors encircle the city.
To make the zone more livable, the plan highlighted the importance of diverse housing options and more affordable rentals for young innovators, international talent, and business people. High-grade cultural and sports facilities will be developed, alongside a world-class medical cluster and educational institutions, fostering a robust innovation ecosystem.
