Beijing beefs up protection of historic architecture, landscape

BEIJING — Beijing has adopted the revision of the regulation on the protection of historical and cultural sites in the city to intensify protection of local historic relics.

According to the revision approved by the local legislature on Jan 27, protected sites will cover world heritage sites, historical streets and lanes, traditional "hutong" alleyways, ancient waterways and the landscape of the old city area.

The revised regulation, which will take effect on March 1, stipulates that demolition and destruction of protected sites and bungalows are prohibited, major cultural sites and historical buildings should be vacated and restored to their original style, and efforts will be intensified to protect relics and improve the surrounding environment.

Infrastructure and public service facilities will be improved in the old city area, according to the regulation.

New construction, reconstruction and expansion projects in protected streets, townships and villages will be launched only to serve the basic needs for municipal infrastructure and public service facilities and relevant restoration work, according to the regulation.

Libraries, museums, art galleries, bookstores and exhibition centers on local intangible cultural heritage will also be introduced to historical buildings to enhance public cultural services.

First issued in 2005, the regulation was revised to better serve the function of Beijing's core area as a key area for the preservation of historical sites.