Historic neighborhoods at center of renewal plans

Macau’s older, historic neighborhoods will be a priority in the government’s urban renewal drive, Chief Executive (CE) Sam Hou Fai said at the first meeting of the leadership group overseeing the work.

Chairing the meeting at government headquarters, Sam pointed to plans to rehabilitate aging buildings in historic districts such as Iao Hon and preserve the area around the Ruins of St. Paul’s, including the “Patio do Espinho.”

Addressing the challenges, Sam noted that renewal must not only change the city’s look but also improve residents’ daily lives while protecting the character and cultural heritage of established communities.

The heads of the group’s two working teams, Wong Sio Chak and Raymond Tam, reported on legal and policy proposals and technical coordination efforts.

The CE said the government has begun preparatory work, including an action plan to renew and revitalize Patio do Espinho (Espinho Courtyard), a small community that has existed for more than 400 years. It is located beside the Ruins of St. Paul’s and has deep roots in Macau’s historical and cultural heritage, including the protection and veneration of the goddess Na Tcha.

Sam remarked that Macau’s third Five-Year Plan also sets out measures to accelerate urban renewal plans, calling for closer cooperation among government departments and more consultation with residents and community associations.

The CE emphasized that community neighborhoods, in addition to representing an essential component of urban renewal, constitute the basic unit of the local governance system. Therefore, to accelerate the process, it is important to strengthen communication and coordination with associations and residents, as well as to manage relationships among all parties involved.

He also added that it is equally necessary to adopt a preventive approach to the most unfavorable scenarios, anticipating risks, difficulties, and challenges, and preparing appropriate contingency plans that ensure safety and stability.

In parallel, he highlighted the importance of using scientific methods to improve efficiency, strengthen planning, develop detailed plans and accelerate the implementation of mature priority projects, with a view to strengthening resident participation and satisfaction through concrete actions.