The sorry-looking Gongbei Market behind Yingbin Square shopping center will be upgraded to provide high-grade, convenient, and "smart" shopping for Zhuhai and Macao customers, Zhuhai Market Operation Group announced Aug 29.

Planning is underway for the makeover several blocks north of Gongbei Checkpoint. Work is to begin this year at a cost of 15 million yuan ($2 million). Envisioned is a business complex with attractive environment, new-type business layout, and increased competitiveness in the Gongbei business circle.

Located on 138 Yuehua Road with access from Lianhua Road, the 7,052-sqm (2-acre) farmer's market has served 20,000 locals and northern Macao residents for more than 20 years. The main building has total floorage of 12,900 sqm (3 acres) with Floors 1-3 used for selling produce, and 4-8 consisting of hotel rooms.

However, dilapidated facilities, unreasonable spatial design, unclear product classification, and lack of characteristic products catering to new consumption demands are said to make renovation imperative.

Gongbei Market [Photo by Wu Changfu / Guanhai App]