On 9/9, the Management Board of Construction Investment Projects, Area 1, announced it submitted a plan to Hue City's Department of Finance to revitalize Con Hen islet (Vy Da ward). The plan awaits appraisal and investment approval. The total estimated cost is approximately 925 billion VND.

According to the project developers, the cost of compensation for site clearance exceeds 445 billion VND, affecting 267 households, 178 of which will be relocated.

The revitalization plan includes constructing a 3.2 km embankment around Con Hen islet to prevent erosion and protect the flood drainage corridor. The embankment will be made of precast concrete, incorporating public wharves and drainage outlets. A 9-meter wide road will be built along the embankment, accompanied by greenery, lighting, landscaping, a promenade, and parking areas. Ung Binh street, intersecting with Nguyen Sinh Cung street leading to the center of Con Hen, will also be widened.

Con Hen islet in the Perfume River will be revitalized starting in 2026. Photo: *Vo Thanh*

In 1998, Thua Thien Hue province planned to develop Con Hen into a high-end tourist area, proposing the relocation of nearly 1,000 households. However, this plan was not implemented, leaving the area in planning limbo for many years. Several foreign investors surveyed the area but withdrew due to the high cost of land clearance.

Hue City leaders deemed the high-end tourism development plan for Con Hen unfeasible due to the extensive land clearance required and the close ties of the local community to their distinct culture and livelihoods. Consequently, the city decided to retain the residential area, focusing on revitalization and utilizing some upstream land for public services, a plaza, and open spaces.

Vo Thanh