Liangjiang's urban renewal efforts pay off

A business area in an old residential neighborhood in Liangjiang. [Photo provided to english.liangjiang.gov.cn]

Liangjiang New Area has been working to rejuvenate its aging residential neighborhoods by revitalizing dormant assets, fostering community engagement, and integrating digital technologies. Central to these efforts is the Xingjiaqiao community, which has been transformed into a 15-minute high-quality living zone.

Despite challenges posed by its dense population of 11,000 residents within a mere 1.3 square kilometers, the community has converted the idle Renhe Grain Station into a comprehensive service center that offers healthcare, elderly care, and parking solutions.

Lu Ying, Party secretary of the community, said that the transformation process was inclusive, involving the crafting of over 10 spatial plans and numerous resident meetings to ensure community-driven development.

Each subdistrict tailored its renewal plan to local resources, embedding the concept of livability into the fabric of daily life. In Renhe subdistrict, efforts are concentrated on enhancing residential business districts.

The area currently boasts three public schools and 11 kindergartens, while hospitals and elderly service stations provide comprehensive care, and commercial areas and lush parks offer a harmonious blend of urban and natural environments.

Longta subdistrict has adopted a "cultural enrichment" approach, connecting community spaces such as the Ziwei Road commercial street and urban reading rooms, ensuring needs are met close to home while enriching lifestyle experiences.

Xiantao subdistrict has embraced digital empowerment, launching an app that provides navigation to community facilities and integrates entertainment and convenience services, bridging online and offline interactions.

Liangjiang has established 22 such living zones, focusing on revitalizing underutilized resources. A local official said, "We will continue to refine our plans and enhance digital platforms to transform these living zones into effective, convenient, and harmonious communities."