Beijing to double investment in downtown renovations

Beijing is to double its investment in the renovation of its ancient downtown buildings next year with a budget between RMB1.5 billion ($220.6 million) and RMB2 billion.

Vice mayor Chen Gang said about 20,000 families in the districts of Dongcheng, Xicheng, Chongwen and Xuanwu will benefit from the project, which will be focused on aging homes in dangerous condition.

Siheyuan, or courtyard homes, are common in Beijing's hutong, or alleyways.

Their residents complain about leaking roofs in summer, fire hazards and dangerous electricity cables. They must also share water taps, electricity and toilets with neighbors, which sometimes lead to quarrels.