The State Council issued a statement on Aug 3 approving the development plan submitted by Fuzhou, capital of East China’s Fujian province.

The State Council asked the province to develop infrastructure for both urban and rural residents in the city, and also asked it to boost the development of rural areas that are considered to be part of the city.

The statement also urges Fujian province and its capital to follow the plan, and does not permit them to develop any development zones or new towns on land that is not earmarked for construction.

The State Council asked the province to control the capital’s scale and population, improve its transportation, water supply and sewage system, and also enhance its ability to manage natural disasters and other emergencies.

Additionally, the statement urges Fuzhou to help its rural residents gain equal access to public services such as education and health care, and provide better housing for those living in shanty towns or rural residents living in decrepit houses - while preserving the city’s traditional neighborhoods and natural resources.