The key to preservation and reconstruction of the ruins region is funding. Within the 3.2 square kilometers of the Daming Palace Ruins Region, 3.5 million square meters of buildings were dismantled, involving 100,000 inhabitants.

"Relocating 100,000 inhabitants cost RMB 8.4 billion. We want to improve the living standards of these citizens, and their new homes are not far from their old ones, so that they can benefit from the Ruins Park. After all, they have made a great sacrifice for the protection of the ruins," says Duan Xiannian. But this is only a small part of the project. The total renovated area will cover nearly 20 square kilometers. "The fund for preservation and reconstruction will amount to RMB 18 billion," adds Duan.

This is a huge sum compared to RMB 16 billion, the total revenue of Xi'an in 2009.

An important source of funding is big real estate developers. Duan Xiannian adopted the "reverse order." The government borrowed money to requisition land, make city planning and build infrastructure facilities. The prepared land is then auctioned off to recoup the funds. Their viewpoint is that the value of land lies in its environment, and the environment elevates industrial activity.

Before getting involved in the Daming Palace Ruins Region, Duan Xiannian had successfully conducted some large-scale cultural relic projects. His accumulated experience and fundraising skills have made the preservation and reconstruction project a reality.

"Many people have realized that historical splendor can stimulate cultural renaissance in commercial development, and reshape the city's culture. This is a new industrial model. Historical value increases through cultural renaissance," says Ren Xi'an, deputy director of the Xi'an Qujiang Daming Palace Ruins Region Preservation and Reconstruction Office.

Editor: Xie Fang

Source: China Today