LONDON, March 4 (Xinhua) -- Liverpool's historic Chinatown, the oldest in Europe, is set for a major revitalization, the city council announced on Monday.
The initiative is part of broader plans to rejuvenate the area with new homes and businesses. Supported by local community groups and the University of Liverpool's School of Architecture, the council has designed a new square within Chinatown, which dates back to the early 1800s.
The project will feature two ceremonial stone lions, a red maple wishing tree, and a garden, with completion expected in 2026. The stone lions will mark the 25th anniversary of the Liverpool-Shanghai sister city relationship.
Wang Ming, secretary general of the Merseyside Chinese Association Joint Action Group, emphasized Chinatown's deep-rooted significance. "Chinatown has been home to the local community for more than 200 years. It holds a very special place in our hearts," Wang told Xinhua.
The Chinese community is looking forward to the revitalization, hoping it will bring in more visitors, attract investment, and welcome tourists from around the world, Wang added.
"Our goal is to transform Chinatown into a space that residents and the community can take pride in while also creating a welcoming destination for tourists," city council spokesman Nick Small said. ■
