The Chimelong Group has been revealed as the developer of a planned marine park, safari and hotel development at Hengqin Island in Zhuhai, part of China’s Guangdong Province.
Although still in the planning stages, local government approval has been secured for the project, described as the largest of its kind in China. Completion is expected by 2012.
Speaking exclusively to Park World, Chimelong Group director of investment Tony Sze said the development represents a “massive opportunity,” and should bolster the tourist offering in the Pearl River Delta, in particular complementing activities in Macau – a short ferry hop from Zhuhai.
“There is a lot gambling in Macau, but many families want to go and see it,” he notes. “We can provide them with something new in terms of tourism. Our current park [in Guangzhou] is more a regional park; here we want to develop an international destination.“
Located in the Panyu district of Guangzhou, the existing Chimelong resort comprises an amusement park, waterpark, safari, crocodile park, circus, three hotels and a conference centre and has been awarded national 5 “A” status.
China’s largest existing marine park is Ocean Park in Hong Kong. Together with Hong Kong Disneyland, OCT’s parks in Shenzhen, Macau’s resorts and casinos, Chimelong Resort and now the group’s new development in Zhuhai, the Pearl River Delta is set to offer one of the strongest groupings of parks and attractions in Asia.
