Hoan Kiem District in Hanoi has proposed an $720,000 investment plan to demolish the iconic ‘Shark Jaw’ building (Ham Ca Map) and expand Dong Kinh-Nghia Thuc Square.

The project, aimed at enhancing public space in the city center, is expected to be completed in 2025.

Plans for redevelopment

The Hoan Kiem District People’s Committee recently submitted a proposal to the Hanoi People’s Committee, requesting approval to begin planning the expansion and redevelopment of Dong Kinh-Nghia Thuc Square.

The proposed project covers an area of 1.2 hectares, including the site currently occupied by the ‘Shark Jaw’ building, which was built in the early 1990s and is managed by the Hanoi Transport Corporation. The building sits on a 390-square-meter plot, with a total floor area of 1,600 square meters.

Urban planning and timeline

According to Hanoi’s 2021 detailed urban plan, the Dong Kinh-Nghia Thuc Square site is designated for public use and underground parking facilities. The land currently occupied by the ‘Shark Jaw’ building is also classified as public land.

Following the city’s directives, Hoan Kiem District has scheduled the demolition of the ‘Shark Jaw’ building before April 30, 2025. The district has also proposed overseeing the entire project, ensuring the timely execution of the expansion.

If approved, the project preparation phase will take place from March to April 2025, with full implementation set for later in the year.

Quang Phong