Chongqing - Chongqing is embracing a new wave of urban renewal, blending historical preservation with modern revitalization. The city recently announced the acceleration of 15 key urban renewal projects in central city districts. This time, it focuses on "micro-renovation" techniques that enhance functionality while retaining local character. So far, 295 urban renewal initiatives have been launched citywide.

Tourists visit the Yinghua Lane cooperative village, an international youth community in Chongqing's city centre. (Photo: Wang Quanchao)

One standout example is the Luzu Temple Traditional Block in the city centre. It is a century-old commercial hub once known as one of Chongqing’s liveliest streets. "Over 70% of Luzu Temple's structures date back to the 1920s-1970s, representing diverse architectural styles from different eras. These buildings bear witness to the city's history," A manager from the renovation project's implementing company explained. 

Therefore, from the very beginning, the renovation project prioritized micro-upgrades to maximize the preservation of the original architectural features—restoring wooden carvings, vintage doors, and weathered bricks—while introducing trendy cafes, bookstores, and modern retail spaces. 

Another micro-renovation approach Chongqing takes is prioritizing data-driven management. Through citywide "health checks," local authorities gathered data from 256 subdistricts and 1979 communities to identify pressing residential needs.

A standout data-driven management instance is Qixinggang Street, an area facing significant governance challenges, including numerous aging residential communities and a high proportion of elderly residents. It exploits smart data displayed on a 16-square-meter display screen in its management centre to show real-time neighborhood updates: smart cameras automatically detect overflowing trash bins, prolonged absences of seniors living alone, illegal parking violations, and other alerts.

The 1862 Yangpao Bureau Cultural and Creative Park has undergone urban upgrades. (Photo: Wang Quanchao)

Resident-centred decision-making is also an effective approach in Xinglongyuan, an aging residential area undergoing safety and environmental upgrades. After multiple community meetings, the project addressed critical issues like fire hazards and outdated infrastructure while adding green spaces.

Since 2018, Chongqing has renovated 9,910 old neighborhoods, benefiting 2.32 million households. Moving forward, the city aims to refine its micro-renovation model further, balancing heritage conservation, functional upgrades, and smart governance.