Shanghai Daily News

Under the general guideline of "Focusing on one kilometer and making a breakthrough of 500 meters," the development of Zhabei District's Suzhou Creek Modern Services Zone is currently being actively promoted.

The 32-hectare zone, including the water section, covers the area north of Qiqu and Qufu roads in the southern reaches of Suzhou Creek and west of Wuzhen Road and east of Zhejiang Road N.

District Official Zhu Jin said the modern services zone creates a radiant effect in the Shanghai central business district and other key business districts.

"We are grasping the opportunity of this development to fully bring out the historical and cultural elements of this area," she said. "It creates a new environment for business, media, fashion and architectural firms and for the public in general."

The modern services zone, characterized by high-end business and riverside recreation, is being developed as a mix of historical scenery and modern residential areas. District officials are confident it will be a draw for  tourism, cultural creation and the design community.

The redesign of public space, transport lines, old buildings, lighting, green areas and sculptures will become a highlight of the zone. Advertising billboards that are considered an eyesore will be removed or relocated.

The new Meitai Ancient City is the first new project of the zone.

Drawing on the experience of Hong Kong's Langham Place, it is a commercial site featuring elaborate clothes and accessories outlets that are designed to attract young consumers.

In addition, the reconstruction of a one-kilometer flood prevention wall will start at the end of the year. The project, which includes building a theme structure, scenery and roadworks, aims to improve the zone's environment.

Suzhou Creek is perhaps best known for its warehouses that sit along its banks. Most of the structures date back to the 1930s when the waterway was the major economic and industrial base of the city. However, the buildings are now undergoing great changes in terms of their function.

"Suzhou Creek Art Center and Sihang Warehouse are two sites typical of the area," said Zhabei official Zhu. "The former is being transformed into a showroom for French artists and is scheduled for completion by year end. The latter used to be the Japanese military's headquarter during World War II and now houses studios, workshops and galleries."

Another nine old warehouses on the creek's northern bank will also take on a new look. These sites will become a tourist attraction and in line with the orientation of the new-look zone. More importantly, it establishes a solid foundation to further introduce international brands in the service industry.

"Suzhou Creek inspires people's creation and love for life," said Zhang Ming, Sihang Warehouse's general manager. "The modern services zone adds more vitality and meaning to the area."

The development of the modern services zone will have a great effect on the city's efforts to improve its urban environment. Through appropriate planning and efficient development, the long-term benefits will be multiple for both citizen and the business community alike.