A contest to design architectural plans for the expansion of the existing APEC Park in Binh Hien Ward, Hai Chau District, Da Nang, started on Monday.

The expansion of the existing APEC Park aims to create more green spaces for the city centre, and allow diplomatic events and festivals to be held here as well.

The ongoing event is being jointly organised by the Management Board of the Da Nang Infrastructure Construction and Urban Development Projects, and the Construction Engineering Consultancy Centre under the municipal Department of Construction.

Covering a total area of 8,668m², the expanded area will feature a public park, a stroll garden associated with an existing sculpture garden, a main stage, a water fountain, a stage for organising cultural events, a playground for children, greenery areas, a parking area, and underground public toilets.

According to the contest’s organisers, entries are required to show off optimal ideas about park space, and meet the criteria on aesthetics, feasibility, landscape, morphology, and climate patterns.

In addition, there should be proposals on ensuring harmonious connection in terms of landscape, traffic, functionality with such surrounding venues as the current APEC Park, the Museum of Cham Sculpture, the western end of the Rong (Dragon) Bridge, the landscape along riverside Bach Dang Street, and a public park near the western end of the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge.

Besides, entries should propose related infrastructure solutions for traffic, lighting and water supply systems, parking areas, comfortable and modern equipment serving activities held at the APEC Park.

Ideas about the effective use of the park, appropriate maintenance and economical operation plans will also be welcomed.

A first prize of 150 million VND, a second prize of 50 million VND will be given out to outstanding entries. Also, entries listed in the top 5 will receive 50 million VND each.

The existing riverside APEC park was built on a 3.047m² triangular-shaped vacant land lot at the intersection area of 2 September street and Bach Dang extended street, near the western end of the Dragon Bridge in Binh Hien Ward.

The expansion of this wonderful cultural landmark aims to create even more green spaces for the city centre, and allow diplomatic events and festivals to be held here as well.