Science cluster among projects

Shanghai will continue to transform itself into a center of science and technological innovation and creative culture, according to the city's new master plan, which looks outward to the year 2040.

The city plans to speed up construction of a new industrial system led by technological innovation and strategic emerging industries based in modern services and supported by an advanced manufacturing sector.

"We're keen to build a global hub with large impact and higher-standard services, introduce innovative service facilities and attract more creative entrepreneurs from around the globe to keep it active," said Zhuang Shaoqin, director of Shanghai's City Planning Bureau.

Construction of the Zhangjiang National Innovation Demonstration Zone is key to developing the world's leading scientific research base and major scientific infrastructure cluster.

Other high-technology industrial parks, such as the Shanghai Zizhu Science Park and Shanghai Caohejing Hi-Tech Park, will form a high-level innovative base for businesses.

"It is essential to form a more innovative business environment for both local and international companies to stay permanently," said Yu Lei, a researcher at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences.

In addition, the city plans to be a global fashion design hub, as well as a creative design and professional education center. By the year of 2040, there will be eight to 10 art galleries, more than two museums and more than five medium-size and large libraries for every 100,000 people.