The State Council has approved the overall urban planning (2001-2020) for Dalian city in Northeast China’s Liaoning province.

Located in the south of Liaoning province, Dalian is a major city, seaport and popular tourism destination in North China.

Coordinated urban and rural development was urged in the designated area of 5,558 square kilometers.

According to the plan, the population of permanent residents in downtown Dalian will be capped at 5 million by 2020, and the city’s urban construction land limited to 496 square kilometers.

The State Council also urged the Dalian government to speed up the building of Jinpu New Area by improving services and enhancing global competitiveness. The Jinpu New Area has been earmarked as a strategic area that could revitalize the Northeast region and further promote cooperation with Northeast Asia.

The local government is also required to improve low carbon, green urban infrastructure and establish a comprehensive transportation system.

The plan also suggests the government should control pollutants and speed up cutting overcapacity, while creating a resident-friendly city. Efforts to protect historic and natural reserves are also listed.

In addition, the provincial government of Liaoning and the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development should provide guidance, supervision and inspections to ensure successful implementation of the plan.