The Xiongan New Area is gearing up for a massive construction effort as it enters a crucial stage in the development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region after five years of planning. Located about 100 kilometers southwest of Beijing, Xiongan New Area in Hebei province is preparing to absorb Beijing’s non-capital functions and draw in universities, research institutes, medical institutions and corporate headquarters. Some large state-owned companies will also build headquarters in the area. Planning and construction of the Xiongan New Area has seen steady progress, said Lin Nianxiu, Vice Chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC).

The Xiongan New Area is being built as one of the “two wings” of Beijing. The other is the capital’s subcenter in its eastern Tongzhou district, where the Beijing municipal government is being relocated. Lin said Xiongan has fully shifted its focus from design to the construction stage. “Both of the two wings’ construction will focus on creating a friendly, ecologically healthy environment,” Lin said. “Some of our measures focus on building world-leading zones for people’s work and life.” Chen Gang, Party Secretary of Xiongan, added: “We put an emphasis on high quality in constructing the Xiongan New Area, using intelligence and creativity to build a world-class innovative area”. Up to 30% of the area will be developed in the long run, leaving the rest as green space and water areas.

In late December, the central authorities released the overall plan for Xiongan New Area (2018-35), saying that the region should protect the ecological environment and stick to green development for a healthier community as a way to improve people’s livelihoods. A week later, Hebei province released a guideline to better manage and environmentally restore Baiyangdian Lake in the province. A national park around the lake is planned for the future, the China Daily reports.