The Cheonggyecheon River project. Flashcards
where is the Cheonggyecheon river catchment located?
Soul, South Korea.
Why was work needed on the infrastructure that surrounded the river?
Series of old damaged road connections and bridges need repair along the channel. Infrastructure was disintegrating river was becoming polluted.
From a business point of view why was the project important?
100,000 businesses were obscured due to the current layout. Want to produce welcoming environment along the river to attract people.
What was the project’s main aim?
To create a 5.8km ecological and recreational area along the banks of the river. To improve connectivity between north and south of the city, current layout prevented this.
How was the Cheonggyecheon treated before the project?
It had been covered up as it was thought it posed a health risk. Businesses around channel were isolated as a result.
Why was work needed?
Korea now a developed nation, New emphasis on health and sustainability. New open spaces would help achieve this.
How many new bridges were built?
- 12 of them were pedestrian.
What happened to the decking once the project started?
It was removed resulting in open access to the channel.
How much did the restoration project cost?
$281 million.
Between what years did the project last?
2003-2005
How were the water shortages in the river adressed?
Water pumped in from the nearby Hanang River. Maintained an average depth of 40cm.
How did the initial ‘sanitation risk’ develop?
Squatter settlements had emerged along the banks during Seoul’s development. Businesses soon followed however, there were open sewers that polluted the river.
How was pollution reduced?
Water is treated at several plants. Cars have been discouraged from driving to the area, they have reduced road access.
How have they improved the local environment?
Wetland established were River meets the Hanang river. Waterfront built with environmentally friendly materials. Fountains and waterfalls. Seating is available.
What organizations were involved?
Cheonggyecheon Restoration Citizens Committee. Seoul Metropolitan Authority. Lee Myung Bak made it a priority once elected mayor in 2001.
