SHANGHAI'S blueprint for its urbanization and construction over the next three decades will focus on sustainable growth, improved people's living conditions and a clearer cultural identity, Xiao Lin, director of the city government's development research center, said yesterday.

"Shanghai is set to become a metropolitan (city) in the future," Xiao said during a forum on sustainable development hosted by the Shanghai University of Finance and Economics.

"We are working on a comprehensive plan for Shanghai's further urbanization, and it will guide the city to become better structured in economy, more environment-friendly and more distinguishable in culture," Xiao said.