The interior design of an apartment that is subsidized by the government in OVC. [Photo/WeChat account of Optic Valley of China]

On April 6, a youth surnamed Zhou moved into an apartment that is subsidized by the government in the East Lake High-tech Development Zone (also known as Optics Valley of China, or OVC).

"The subsidized rent for my new apartment was only sufficient for room in shared accommodations previously, but now I can live alone in this apartment. I am satisfied with the community's environment and security arrangements," said Zhou.

Boasting tidy surroundings and complete public infrastructure, the community is also equipped with gyms and recreational areas. The apartment has air-conditioners, washing machines, water heaters, sofas and beds, creating a bright and cozy atmosphere.

The recreational area of the community in OVC. [Photo/WeChat account of Optic Valley of China]

According to a staff member from the space planning bureau of the valley, the proportion of OVC's young population (those under 35 years old) is about 70 percent of its total. Because of this, the construction of government-subsidized rental housing has become a top priority in order to retain talents.

The government work report issued by the State Council this year clarified the necessity of accelerating the construction of government-subsidized rental housing. It also addressed the rigid and improved demands for housing, and encouraged local governments to resolve the housing problems of new citizens and young people. Wuhan then doubled down on its efforts to meet these requirements.

Over the past year, OVC has set up a special work team to visit eight industrial parks, hold meetings with more than 20 enterprises, and issue questionnaires, in order to predict the city's housing needs in a more precise manner.

Statistics show that during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25), the valley is expected to build about 80,000 apartments. From 2021 to 2022, the city's target was to build 34,500 apartments, and by the end of 2022, it had built 34,900 apartments, exceeding its target. This accounted for 45 percent of Wuhan's total government-subsidized rental housing target.