Liangjiang's urban renewal efforts win UN recognition

Beicang Library transformed from a warehouse. [Photo by Cao Jian]

The Beicang cultural block in Liangjiang New Area has been recognized as one of the top 30 global urban renewal best practices at the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Azerbaijan, held from May 17 to 22.

This historic district, once a textile factory warehouse and an old residential area, has implemented three key initiatives: revitalizing industrial heritage, engaging residents, and integrating culture, commerce, and tourism.

The project drew on meticulous micro-renewal techniques to preserve the area's original structure, with materials from dismantled old buildings, such as bricks, wooden beams, and iron door frames, repurposed for walls, landscapes, and shop decorations.

The Beicang Library, transformed from an old warehouse, now features original wooden beams supporting its dome, blending historical and contemporary elements.

The renewal efforts also addressed community needs through infrastructure improvements, such as burying nearly 100 kilometers of overhead cables and converting unused spaces into pocket parks and recreational areas.

Residents have also participated as volunteer guides, exemplifying a collaborative framework supporting local small businesses and young creative entrepreneurs, aligning with residents' daily lives.

Convenient services such as housekeeping, elderly care, and childcare have been introduced, while the library, art galleries, and lifestyle aesthetics centers create an even more livable environment.

The block also hosts cultural activities, including art festivals, exhibitions, and fairs, to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.