It was high time to develop Dapeng Peninsula in southern Shenzhen into a high-quality seaside resort, Mayor Li Hongzhong said Friday (Feb. 18th).

Li said the well-preserved Dapeng was an emerald and treasure of the city, which should be cherished and well protected.

He said the project was an important part of building a harmonious and efficient Shenzhen and would become a new growth point for the city's economic development.

Li stressed environmental protection should be the first priority and any hasty work sacrificing the environment was unwise and forbidden.

Dapeng Peninsula consists of three sub-districts, Kuichong, Dapeng and Nan'ao, covering a total area of 294.18 square kilometers, 76 percent of which are forest. It has more than 130 kilometers of coastline, with unique scenery and rich natural resources.

The government has not yet announced detailed plans for the development of the eco-peninsula.

Editor: Catherine