UPGRADES in Yuanfen Village in Longhua District in recent years have significantly improved infrastructure and management. Many old buildings have been transformed into clean, neat and well-facilitated youth apartments, making young migrants feel at home. Spending time in common areas such as kitchens, canteens, cafes, gyms, libraries and rooftop gardens gives these newly-arrived Shenzheners a sense of community.

Renovation in Yuanfen is part of the city’s efforts in building affordable housing in urban villages. In late February, the city’s housing and construction bureau released a guidance document regarding affordable apartment renovation in urban villages. According to the guidance, the minimum area of a studio flat should be 10 square meters, a one-bedroom apartment, 20 square meters, and a two-bedroom apartment, 27 square meters. All the apartments should be equipped with furniture, water, electricity, air-conditioning and other basic supplies, using energy-efficient, safe and durable materials; public spaces should offer activity areas and convenience services for residents.

(Cao Zhen)