The overall Suzhou development plan was approved by the State Council on July 26. It has drawn a road map for the city of East China’s Jiangsu province from 2011 to 2020.

As a city rich in historic sites, picturesque sceneries and high-tech industries, Suzhou is recognized by the State Council as one of the leading cities in Yangtze River Delta, according to an official document issued on Aug 2.

The State Council urged Suzhou to integrate the administration of urban and rural areas in order to achieve a balanced development. For example, the public services in rural areas should be on par with urban areas.

The scale of Suzhou city’s growth will be controlled reasonably. By 2020, the population of its central area will be capped at 3.6 million and the area for urban construction will be set below 380 square kilometers.

In addition, Suzhou will build more infrastructure, including highway, railway and airport, improve subsoil drainage system, cut energy usage and control contamination.

More public services aimed at enhancing citizens’ livelihood will be provided. According to the plan, public services including education and medical services will be enhanced. More low-cost public housing will be constructed and the living condition of city slums will be improved.

As a historic and tourism city, Suzhou was asked to pay more attention to the protection of environment and historic sites, including spots such as Taihu Lake, nature reserves and wet land, the famous gardens and ancient buildings.