The feasibility report of the northern branch of the Palace Museum was recently approved by the National Development and Reform Commission of China. This project is a key project in Beijing's Action Plan for Strengthening Its Function as a Center for International Exchanges (2019-2022). Upon competition, it will provide Chinese and foreign visitors with more sophisticated and convenient experience of culture and public services.

According to the feasibility report, the northern branch of the Palace Museum is located in Xiyuhe Village of Xibeiwang Town, Haidian District. Its construction area will be no more than 102,000 square meters, including 33,378 square meters for exhibition halls, 16,025 square meters for restoration of cultural relics, 25,302 square meters of cultural relics warehouse, 9,904 square meters for digital cultural communications, 5,468 square meters for visitor services, and 11,923 square meters for supporting facilities. 

To ensure steady progress in the project and security of the cultural relics, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism will provide guidance to the project owner to help it improve the design based on the evaluation results, and take effective measures to prevent flooding and seepage. During the design and construction stages, experts' opinions will be fully considered, and the following measures will be taken to reduce risks: First, underground structures should be designed to prevent crack, flooding and seepage. Second, a flood contingency plan should be drafted; in case of excessive flooding, temporary measures should be taken to prevent flood water from flowing into the underground space. Third, use inorganic waterproof material with a longer life span and shrinkage-compensating concrete on both sides of the outer wall of the basement.  

According to the approval, the legal project owner is the Palace Museum. It is required that the Palace Museum take an attitude that is responsible for cultural relics, history and the later generations, and fulfill its primary responsibility in design and construction of the project. No office buildings are allowed in the project, and the project is not allowed to be modified into office buildings upon completion.  

(Reporter: Cao Zheng)