(Xinhua)
Updated: 2007-12-05 20:04

According to an abbreviated version of the report posted on the official website of the city government, experts concluded that the southern area of Haicang District, where the PX plant was originally planned to be located, is too small and inadequate for the diffusion of atmospheric pollution.

The local government had set two targets for the southern part of Haicang: to develop the area into a sub-center of the city and to create an industrial zone focused on the chemical industry.

However, according to the environmental assessment report, urban planners are advised to choose one or the other, but not both.

If the city government's priority is the first target, then the area is unsuitable for the development of the chemical industry, the report says. If the latter, a number of residential buildings should be demolished, citizens should be relocated and strict controls over the chemical plants should be imposed, it continues.

But news that members of the public are encouraged to submit their opinions has failed to appease citizens of Xiamen and the majority of those interviewed by Xinhua remained opposed to the chemical plant.

"I will use legal channels, such as hotlines or email addresses provided by the government, to express my opposition," said a citizen surnamed Wu in his 30s.

"The project is no good for the environment or people's health," the Internet cafe owner said.

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