Plan “C” For Chinatown
Yuanbo Zhang Supervisors: Paul Dash & Jane Dash
The two blocks between Bourke Street and Lonsdale Street in the Melbourne CBD has been recognized as “Chinatown” for centuries, it is also one of the most popular commercial precincts, Asian community gathering place, and tourist attraction. It bears countless dreams, laughter, and hope. However, facing the pressure of an increasing population, aging infrastructure and emerging commercial shopping centres nearby, Chinatown is at risk of losing its glamor and prosperity. Additionally, the intimate and historical precinct may be replaced by skyscrapers like the rest of the CBD and lose its identity forever. This project is a planning proposal for the City Council and Asian community who live and work in Chinatown. The project suggests a new way to develop and “cure” the current problems by amplifying its cultural, economic and environmental attributes. In order to achieve this goal, a “Super Agency” will be selected by the City Council and Chinatown committee. The project will transform Chinatown into one big “Super Block” instead of discrete properties, while offering new centralised infrastructures, delivery systems, gateways, public space, and public programmes in sequential stages to help activate Chinatown. As a result, Chinatown will become a pedestrian friendly precinct, attract new investments, and give the new Chinatown back to Melbourne as a city pride.
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