Whether to build anew or demolish the old is always a big question for Beijing. As the city is developing, many of its aging hutong, courtyards and historical streets have gone unprotected. Now, remains of Beijing's historical landscape are expected to escape such decay.

The capital's Planning Commission has published "The Historical and Cultural Protection Plan of Beijing for the 12th Five-Year Plan". In the Plan, the protection of the historical and cultural city will be expanded to all of Beijing.

Dashilan-Liulichang became a major distribution center during the Ming Dynasty, and now -- the most traditional area with "Beijing's character". The area's renovation program began in 2008. All renovation—the commercial streets and some residential areas-- maintained the original style, making it blend in with the larger Qianmen Avenue area.

Like most ancient buildings, many houses here have fallen into a state of disrepair. Local residents cope with extreme population density and dated infrastructure. Raising living standards in such areas and improving housing conditions are a main goal of this plan. Balancing that with historical protection is a complicated but necessary task.

As Beijing's most important protection project of the 12th Five Year Plan, Dashilan- Liulichang will turn into a history- and residential- friendly area.

Liu Su, MNG Dir., Xicheng Dist. of BJ Municipal Commission of Urban Planning, said, "Our work will mainly focus on improving environment and upgrading infrastructure in residential area, such as electricity and gas system. At the same time we'd like to develop culture industry. This year the renovated Dashilan-Liulichang has hosted fashion and design events-- it's a successful trail."

According to the "Plan", such efforts will continue and be expanded to the entire capital. Different from pure relic preservation, the protection of a historical and cultural city represents a living history and a dynamic pattern of protection. The old areas will be boosted by the integrated development and the innovative use of historical cultural resources.

Qiu Yue, DEP. Dir of BJ Municipal Commission of Urban Planning, said, "I think there is no contradiction between heritage preservation and the economic development. The city is a living entity. Preserving the tradition provides a better environment for the local people, and also for some businesses. For example, in the renovated Qianmen Avenue, Nan Luo Gu Xiang, traditional food, art and handicraft industry develop very well."

The city planners say, only when an old area remains inhabited can it stay alive. Special policies will be launched to relocate the population and make way for preservation. Local residents can choose themselves -- to stay in Old City, or move to modern apartments.

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