Architectural experts are suggesting that Beijing establish a history and culture protection zone in the center of the city, according to latest issue of Beijing Today.

At a seminar titled “The People's Olympics and the Construction of Beijing Culture” held last week, the experts listed twelve key sites of historical and cultural significance, including the Forbidden City, and Jingshan and Beihai parks that would be included in the proposed zone.

The proposed zone covers the site of the Ming and Qing Dynasty Imperial City, which extends south to Tian’anmen and north to Di’anmen, east to Donghuamen and west to Xihuamen. The experts say it is necessary for the government to establish such a zone, in order to guarantee the protection of all those sites by integrated planning.

Acording to Lu Xiang, a professor at the Beijing Institute of Civil Engineering and Architecture, up to now, most ancient buildings in this area remain in good condition. Furthermore, virtually no high-rise buildings have been allowed to damage the style of the area.

He says these are the advantages of establishing a history and culture protection zone. "In this way, we can invest less while producing better results," said Lu.

(Xinhua News Agency October 23, 2001)