Beijing reports construction land slash in 2019

BEIJING — Beijing saw a drop of land used for urban and rural construction in 2019, two years in a row, with an annual reduction of about 30 square kilometers, said mayor Chen Jining on Sunday.

It was part of the efforts in the thorough implementation of the Master Plan of Beijing (2016-2035).

The city has formulated policies on the strategic reservation of land for future use and development, with measures taken to manage the boundaries between eco-conservation and urban development, Chen said in his government work report at the opening meeting of the annual session of the municipal people's congress.

Chen also noted that the capital's land-based spatial planning has been improved in 2019.

Last year, Beijing implemented zoning plans for all 13 districts and the Yizhuang New Town, and completed planning on the core zone of capital functions as well as upgrading of the Chang'an Avenue and its extensions.

The city also conducted neighborhood renewals and renovation of traditional courtyard houses along Yuer Hutong in downtown area.

At annual "physical check-ups" of the city, 15 "health targets" set for 2020 have been fulfilled ahead of the schedule, the mayor said.