The former Iec Long Firecracker Factory and nearby Pátio da Eterna Felicidade and Rua das Estalagens in Taipa will be revitalised with backing from Sands China, local media has reported.
The project will include interactive digital displays to bring the old firecracker factory’s history to life, Macau Post Daily says.
The Pátio da Eterna Felicidade and Rua das Estalagens, meanwhile, are set to be transformed into artistic hubs with exhibition spaces and boutique speciality stores. Local artists will be invited to help spruce up the area, known for its distinct Sino-Portuguese architecture.
Sands China reportedly plans to develop a pedestrian route between the firecracker factory and the Taipa Houses Museum, and promote the area as a destination for wedding photography.
The Iec Long Firecracker Factory opened in 1925 and operated for almost sixty years. Its plot encompasses about 30 buildings, spread across more than 20,000 square metres, and is now a heritage site. It opened to the public following an initial refurbishment completed in December last year.
[See more: Lawmaker says former firecracker factory is in a state of ‘complete abandonment’]
Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) president Leong Wai Man told media that the next phase of refurbishment would be completed in 2025.
Sands China is the latest gaming operator to announce its revitalisation plan for a designated part of Macao – a requirement in each operator’s new concession contract.
SJM is set to gentrify an area encompassing Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro, Inner Harbour piers 14 and 16, the currently mothballed floating casino Macau Palace, and the Kam Pek Community Centre, while Melco Resorts is backing the restoration of Piers 23 and 25.
Wynn will regenerate the popular Rua da Felicidade. MGM is giving the Barra district a facelift. Galaxy will meanwhile partner with the government on additional refurbishments at Coloane’s Lai Chi Vun Shipyards.
