Scholars have finished a plan for the protection of Beijing as a historical and cultural city, the biggest effort ever in history.

The plan has set detailed requirements for the protection of the city's river system, the traditional urban axis, building colors, the old city shape, roads and lanes. It also has special standards for the skyline and ancient trees. In addition of the 25 housing areas under protection, another 15 have been added to the list. Within these areas, the courtyard structure is strictly protected and any effort to replace the dangerous houses must be done within the original structure.

The Ming and Qing dynasty palace, the forbidden city, of 6.8 square kilometers is defined as the biggest area under protection. The city will revamp this royal city and apply for the cultural heritage of the world.

Some of the city's rivers and lakes that have been in existence in history will be restored if they have important historical or cultural value.

The traditional urban axis structure will be protected and developed and the height of architecture will be under strict control in accordance with their locations and the city's seven skylines will be protected too.

According to the plan, the flat and multi-storied houses newly built within the old city will have to be sloping-roofed and dark grayed and glazed tiles are forbidden for rooftops. Traditional place names are also protected.

The plan is of importance to Beijing, the historical city and serves as an example for protection across the country.

(www.cenews.com.cn September 29, 2002)