The State Council has approved the overall urban plan (2017-2035) for Shanghai, one of four municipalities directly under the central government.

Being a noted historic and cultural city, Shanghai is also a center of international economy, finance, trade, shipping and technological innovation. Therefore, the construction of Shanghai should undertake a bigger role to serve the Belt and Road Initiative and the Yangtze River economic belt, striding ahead in deepening reform and opening-up.

Urban construction should be aimed at building Shanghai into a distinguished global city and a socialist cosmopolis, according to the plan.

Shanghai’s layout should be in line with the strategy of expanding ecological space, saving enough agricultural land while optimizing the urban space. An integral system should be established to balance the development of downtown area, new towns and villages. Meanwhile, it should enhance coordination with surrounding cities to constitute a world-class city group.

The city’s scale will be tightly controlled. It is emphasized that the population of permanent residents should be capped at 25 million by 2035, while the overall construction land will be limited to 3,200 square kilometers. Certain space can be set aside for further adjustment.

Priority is also given to ecological environment protection. More efforts should be made to weed out backward production capacity, reduce pollutant emissions, enhance protection of water areas and green land, and build a water-saving city and a sponge city, according to the circular.

The central government also urges Shanghai to create a better habitation environment. Public services involving education, culture, sports, healthcare and elderly care should be improved. Residential land and its supporting infrastructure should be reasonably arranged regarding population distribution. Increasing housing supplies through multiple channels is encouraged, and comprehensive governance over urban and rural environment will be strengthened.

In addition, the Shanghai government is asked to explore its cultural characteristics to promote its soft power. Historical relics need continued protection, and the buildings in important areas need a careful design to present a blended style of traditional cultures, as well as of nature, and modernization.

Moreover, the city infrastructure should be constructed for security, green protection, and convenience. As Shanghai is a traffic hub, infrastructure such as roads, railways, airports and ports should be improved to facilitate regional transportation. Risk control measures need great attention to guard against disasters and emerging events.

A new governing mechanism for the mega city is stressed in the circular. The rule of law is set to be boosted in city governance. Internet and big data will be introduced to promote a scientific and smart administration. Local governments should also search for solutions from citizens, encouraging them to participate in city governance.

Finally, the State Council urges the Shanghai government to strictly follow the plan and maintain solid implementation. Supervision will be enhanced over the whole construction period.