The Hanoi People’s Committee has instructed the Department of Planning and Architecture and the Hoan Kiem District authorities to review land use and management around King Le Temple and Nam Huong Temple as part of a plan to create new public spaces.

In a report to the Standing Committee of the Hanoi Party Committee, city officials detailed plans to renovate and redesign several public squares and spaces in Hoan Kiem District.

In addition to developing the eastern side of Hoan Kiem Lake and expanding Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square - including the demolition of the “Shark Jaw” building - city officials are now considering the transformation of the areas surrounding King Le Temple and Nam Huong Temple into a public space.

To implement the plan, the Hanoi People’s Committee has tasked the Department of Planning and Architecture, the Hoan Kiem District government, and other relevant agencies with conducting a comprehensive review of land use and identifying available plots for public space development.

The area around King Le Temple and Nam Huong Temple includes several key landmarks, such as the headquarters of Nhan Dan newspaper, Luc Thuy Restaurant, and the Contemporary Art Theater. Situated between Hang Trong Street and Le Thai To Street, the area is now under review, with experts being consulted on the proposed transformation.

Regarding the redevelopment of Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square, the Hanoi People’s Committee has assigned Hoan Kiem District the task of drafting a comprehensive master plan alongside a separate urban design project. This will serve as the basis for investment, renovation, and redevelopment of the square.

Officials are considering the construction of a three-level underground facility within the existing square and the planned expansion area after demolishing the “Shark Jaw” building. Hanoi aims to complete the demolition and clear the site before April 30.

For the eastern side of Hoan Kiem Lake, the city has directed relevant agencies to develop a project transforming the area into a square-park hybrid. Spanning over 2.1 hectares, the site will require the relocation of 12 organizations and 35 households.

Hanoi has set a target to complete the eastern Hoan Kiem Lake plaza by September 2. The city has implemented special measures to ensure smooth progress, aiming to prevent common delays associated with public investment projects involving land acquisition.

Quang Phong