Illegal Buildings Being Torn Down in Popular Shichahai Area
By Justine Lopez
It looks like Shichahai – and its wild and raucous bar street – is the next casualty in Beijing's citywide demolitions. Over 4,000 sqm of illegal structures have now been demolished in the area, which is popular for its scenic lakes and its bars, restaurants and nightlife.
Numerous illegal structures – including expansions of bars and restaurants – have been torn down, and over 350 large advertisement boards have been ripped down.
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Authorities are also cracking down on businesses that are operating without proper licenses. Numerous bars and restaurants in the area have recently been shut down for operating illegally.
The Shichahai area is clustered around Beihai, Qianhai and Houhai lakes. It is a popular area for tourists and locals alike. It is estimated that 40 million visitors flock to the area every year. However, local authorities are on a mission to restore Shichahai's traditional and historical charms.
The businesses that do remain face a number of new restrictions, including the banning of open-air alcohol consumption and sales and illegal building expansions (including second stories). Authorities hope the new rules will help to clean up the area, reduce noise pollution and bring back traditional Chinese culture.
Business owners who hope to open bars and restaurants in the area in the future will face very strict rules, making it incredibly tough to operate in the area.
The future of Shichahai and its popular bar street remains uncertain. One idea that’s floating around is to turn an entire street into a museum-themed area, which will have videos depicting Chinese culture and history projected on the walls of bars and restaurants.
[Images via South China Morning Post]
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