Residents protest new activity center in historic MaZu New Village, citing green space and landscape concerns in Taiwan

A plan to build a new community activity center in Zhongli's MaZu New Village has sparked significant opposition from residents who fear the loss of valuable green space and the potential damage to the historic眷村 (military dependents' village) landscape. The proposed "Longde Citizen Activity Center" is slated for construction on the former site of the Women's League for National Security (婦聯會) park and buildings.

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The city should first inventory surrounding existing public spaces and actual usage needs before evaluating the base; the Ma Village Art Center already has activity classrooms, and the nearby Longxing Junior High School has long been available for community use. Furthermore, Longgang Elementary School's new campus will soon be completed, which will increase public activity space. We hope to postpone construction and find a more suitable site.

Residents have launched an urgent petition, gathering over 400 signatures in three days, calling for a reassessment of the construction site. They argue that the land is not idle and that replacing the park with a permanent structure would harm the village's unique character and public areas. They point to existing facilities like the Ma Village Art Center and nearby schools that can accommodate community activities, suggesting the city should first inventory and optimize current public spaces before embarking on new projects.

Local officials, including Taoyuan City Council Speaker Qiu Yisheng and Councilor Xie Meiying, have visited the site to understand the concerns. While acknowledging the need for a dedicated activity center, they have urged the Zhongli District Office to hold further public consultations. The emphasis is on a principle of "first inventory, then integrate; first revitalize, then build new," ensuring that existing resources are maximized and residents' voices are heard.

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The funding for the activity center was not easily secured, and preliminary plans are in place. However, differing local opinions exist. The Zhongli District Office should hold further explanation sessions to fully coordinate the site location and residents' concerns.

The cultural affairs bureau clarified that the site is within the historical context of MaZu New Village and was previously used for vocational training. The project has passed cultural heritage review, aiming to continue the village's spirit of mutual support and provide a space for community interaction. Regarding concerns about trees, the district chief explained that several banyan trees were removed due to fungal disease and safety concerns, not arbitrary deforestation. The district office plans to organize more explanation sessions to bridge the gap between public construction needs and the preservation of cultural heritage and green spaces.

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The four banyan trees at the park entrance were found to be infected with root rot in 2023. After expert consultation, pruning and prevention were carried out. In late April 2024, root collapse was discovered again. Considering tree stability and public safety, they were removed after professional evaluation, and disease prevention was carried out. This was not arbitrary tree felling.