Hanoi (VNA) – The People’s Committee of Hanoi has completed a report detailing the design and renovation plans for Dong Kinh - Nghia Thuc Square near Hoan Kiem Lake in the city downtown.

According to the committee, Dong Kinh - Nghia Thuc Square, located in the heart of Hoan Kiem district, is a well-known landmark with historical significance. Recognising its importance, the municipal People's Committee, upon reviewing the Hoan Kiem district's report, has directed the district authorities to continue working with consultants to develop a design that integrates the square with surrounding architectural structures.

The area of the square under study spans approximately 12,000 sq.m. To the north, it borders Cau Go and Hang Gai streets; to the south, it adjoins the edge of Hoan Kiem Lake; to the west, it meets Luong Van Can street and the Thuy Ta building; while to the east, it faces Ho Hoan Kiem street, where the "Shark Jaw" building (a commercial, service, and dining centre) is located. The area surrounding the building is designated as public land, covering around 309 square metres.

With an aim to redesign the square to create a more connected and accessible public space, the renovation project will link two important heritage sites - the Hoan Kiem Lake Special National Monument to the north and the Old Quarter National Monument area to the south.

The specific solution proposed includes demolishing the "Shark Jaw" building and introducing three underground levels in the expanded square area. The first underground level will be used for cultural and commercial spaces, while the second and third levels will serve as parking spaces. If parking is not feasible, the space may be used for other multi-purpose functions.

The demolition of the "Shark Jaw" building and the site clearance is scheduled to be completed before April 30.

The project of renovation and improvement of public spaces around Hoan Kiem Lake requires the relocation of various agencies and households from the area, and the city has identified approximately 100 hectares of land in Dong Anh district for resettlement purposes.

The Department of Architecture and Planning will work with Dong Anh district to quickly prepare detailed zoning plans for the resettlement land, prioritising areas that have already been cleared of previous structures.

For those affected, the city will offer the highest compensation according to regulations, with land-based resettlement options in Dong Anh for those eligible for land compensation. Temporary housing will be provided for residents awaiting land allocation, and new homes will be offered for those not eligible for land-based resettlement, helping them stabilise their lives during the relocation process.

Furthermore, the city has outlined plans for the relocation of various agencies' headquarters in the area, including the Department of Culture and Sports, which will temporarily move to the Vo Chi Cong Government Office Complex or a location near the Hanoi People's Committee headquarters. Other organisations will be relocated based on available properties, including older buildings and villas.

The Hanoi People's Committee will also explore alternative locations for key agencies such as the Hanoi Power Corporation, the National Transmission Corporation, and the Power Engineering Consulting Joint Stock Company. These agencies are expected to relocate to areas such as the new urban area in Cau Giay district.

As part of the overall investment project, the Hanoi People's Committee has instructed the Department of Agriculture and Environment to work with the Department of Architecture and Planning to propose a land acquisition strategy for these utility companies to facilitate the resettlement and land clearance processes.

ꦓ For departments requiring continuous operation, such as power control centres, the city has requested that these agencies propose detailed relocation plans within March to ensure their services remain uninterrupted./.