The prestigious accounting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) ranks Zhuhai first among 26 Chinese cities in transportation and urban planning, and first in culture and quality of life in an assessment released on March 30.

This highlights the great emphasis the city places on its urban development strategy, thus realizing a balanced allocation of industrial distribution and residential planning, an official stated. The urban planning layout of roads, housing and parks is orderly and takes into account the needs of the developing tourism industry in neighboring Macao. Green aquaculture and vegetable science centers have enhanced the standard of living in the city.

In concert with the China Development Research Foundation, London-headquartered PwC again ranked Zhuhai 11th in terms of opportunities available to businesses and residents. Chinese Cities of Opportunity 2018 places Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Hangzhou as the overall top five cities. The report states that technological innovation and balanced development are keys to building "cities of opportunity."

City of opportunities, Zhuhai [File photo]

Zhuhai's second appearance in the study, though at the same position, is still historic as it ranks first in both transportation and urban planning, and culture and quality of life.

The high status reflects notable progress in living conditions and recognizes fine urban management. Roads, houses, and parks are delicately arranged and there also are green aquaculture and vegetable research bases, further improving quality of life. Branch campuses of famous universities that cooperate closely with key R&D bases are active in Zhuhai’s industrial circle. Thanks to this long-term commitment, this small city now occupies an indispensable place in the various rankings of livable cities, the report points out.

According to the report, meticulous planning also promotes tourism in neighboring Macao. The iconic coastline landscape belt -- Lovers Avenue in Xiangzhou District -- is central to the region's overall look and draws attention to Macao's picturesque surroundings.

Zhuhai also ranks high in per capita roadways, public transit, green expanses, and available housing. It also scores high in sustainability and natural environment, as well as ease of doing business.

The reports were initiated in 2014, focusing on the development of large representative cities. They use 10 dimensions and 57 variables to provide a comprehensive assessment of competitiveness, influence, and potential of urban development.

Although top-tier cities are included, the primary assessment group consists of 26 specifically designated municipalities or provincial capitals. They are graded on intellectual capital and innovation, technical maturity, regional importance, healthcare, safety and public security, transportation and urban planning, sustainable development and natural environment, culture and quality of life, economic clout, cost, and ease of doing business.