THE expanded Jing'an District will promote high-end businesses and develop cultural and recreational industries, a top district official said yesterday.

The district now covers about 37 square kilometers after merging with neighboring Zhabei District last October.

An Lusheng, the Party Secretary of the district, said they will focus on the development of Nanjing Road W., Suzhou Creek and the area along the Middle Ring Road.

"Jing'an will become an energetic district for innovation and entrepreneurship; a harmonious district of balanced and efficient development; a happy district suitable for living and business development; as well as a charming and open international district," An told the Party Congress of the new district yesterday.

High-end commercial and business services will be developed on both sides of Nanjing Road W. to make it a hub of Shanghai's metropolitan lifestyle, An said. The commercial road will feature high-quality office buildings and a convenient traffic system, he said.

The district will look to further attract talent and encourage them to set up business startups.

The banks of Suzhou Creek will mainly focus on cultural and recreational industries. Innovative parks, office buildings, tourism spots and residential zones will be built along the creek.

The areas along the Middle Ring Road will develop industrial zones, commercial streets, universities and residential buildings. It will become the most comfortable living zone in the future, he said.

An said the district will build more bridges across the Suzhou Creek and smaller roads will be expanded to ensure smooth traffic flow. Old residential buildings will be demolished for redevelopment, he said. But the historic Shikumen communities like the East Siwenli, Zhangyuan Garden and Ankangyuan will be protected.

The district will also have more parks and sporting facilities and free WiFi services will be made available at most public areas, An said.