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Taipei City unveils an ‘artificial beach’

The “artificial beach” created by the Taipei City Government at the southeast plaza of Taipei City Hall was officially opened yesterday, attracting a stream of curious people eager to walk on the white sand and relax.

The NT$1.07 million (US$35,000) 400m² beach with white sand, umbrellas, beach chairs and palm trees will be open until November. The city hopes to attract Taipei residents yearning for a bit of beach culture and relaxation in downtown Taipei.

“Beachgoers,” however, may need a little imagination, as there is one missing ingredient: the sea.

The project, launched yesterday without fanfare or promotional events, has caused some dispute and concern over the environmental impact.

A small group of residents who went to check out the new facility lauded the city government’s creativity, but said the designers had failed to create a relaxing atmosphere.

“This is a good idea,” said June Chu, a Taipei resident who sat on a chair and watched her son play in the sand with other kids.

“I would bring my kids here if the weather is okay. But I think it would be too crowded during the weekends,” she said.

A high school student surnamed Chen, who came along with his classmates, said the facility was disappointingly small, and suggested that the city government add more decorations to make the beach more attractive.

“I thought it would be like the beach in Bali, but it’s very small,” he said.

Emile Sheng (盛治仁), commissioner of Taipei City’s Research, Development and Evaluation Commission, said the concept was borrowed from Germany and France, which have created beaches in various locations to provide getaways from the urban grind right in the heart of the city.

If this year’s beach debut is a hit, the city government hopes to make the white sands an annual summer feature, he said.

The department said it would put up a sign in front of the facility to remind residents that pets are not allowed on the beach. Barbeques, camping and dangerous activities are also prohibited.
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