Hung Yen Plans 1,700ha Port Project to Revive Ancient Pho Hien Trading Port

Hung Yen Province in northern Vietnam has announced a major development plan to recreate the ancient Pho Hien trading port, which once flourished in the region. The project aims to revive the area's past vibrancy by dividing over 1,708 hectares into four functional zones. On September 23, Hong Chau Ward in Hung Yen City hosted a public consultation for the 1:2,000 urban planning project to reconstruct the ancient Pho Hien port. This initiative is led by Hong Chau Ward and has been approved by the Hung Yen Provincial People's Committee. The plan encompasses 1,708 hectares across Pho Hien, Son Nam, Hong Chau, and Tan Hung wards. The architectural and landscape design will leverage Pho Hien's historical and cultural values, harmonizing urban development with riverside scenery and natural ecosystems. The project is divided into four main zones. The Phu Hien Zone (approximately 411 hectares) will serve as an international trade hub, featuring a pier and replicating the bustling streetscape of ancient Pho Hien, frequented by Vietnamese and merchants from 12 countries. The Festival and Event Center Zone (nearly 435 hectares) will concentrate cultural spaces, plazas, an international convention center, and large-scale event venues. The Tourism and Scenic Entertainment Zone (over 474 hectares) is envisioned for commercial services, a tourist port, entertainment facilities, riverside open spaces, and a lighthouse as a focal point. Finally, the Red River Ecological Green Belt Zone (approximately 388.6 hectares) will be developed into a landscape park, gardens, camping areas, and open parks. Mr. Nguyen Hung Nam, Vice Chairman of the Hung Yen Provincial People's Committee, urged relevant departments and local authorities to collaborate closely on plan management, strict land use control, and ensuring investment activities align with the project's direction. He also emphasized the need for meticulous architectural and landscape design for key structures to accurately reflect the distinct characteristics of the ancient port. The development will prioritize ecological solutions, balancing economic growth with environmental protection, and ensuring the safety of dykes and flood prevention measures. Hung Yen Province also plans to mobilize social resources and accelerate compensation and resettlement processes to ensure the well-being of residents within the project area. Pho Hien was a renowned trading port in the northern region (Đàng Ngoài) during the 17th and 18th centuries, situated along the Red River. It was a vital commercial center, second only to Thang Long (present-day Hanoi), its prosperity famously captured in the folk verse, "First Thang Long, second Pho Hien." Source: VnExpress