Beijing prioritizes conservation in urban planning

BEIJING -- Beijing has decided to prioritize the conservation of its historic landscape in the capital's urban planning, local authorities said on Thursday.

As both a historic and global city, Beijing must combine cultural heritage with architectural innovation, said Beijing Vice-Mayor Chen Gang.

Beijing is about to finish modifying its urban planning, and most government efforts have been spent on how to better conserve Beijing's historic landscape.

"Based on the new urban planning, Beijing will rebuild the layout with mountains and rivers surrounding the city," said Huang Yan, director of the Beijing Municipal Commission of Urban Planning.

"City construction has to blend in modern elements, but traditional culture must be kept and promoted," Huang said.