In a groundbreaking initiative, the Central Bay precinct, part of the Eco Central Park in Vinh city, Nghe An province, has introduced the "15-minute city" concept to Vietnam for the first time. This urban model allows residents to live, work, and play within a short distance of their homes, enhancing convenience and sustainability.
Located on a sprawling 20 hectares, Central Bay is designed to optimize urban living by ensuring that essential services and amenities are within a 15-minute reach, whether by walking, cycling, or using public transport. This innovative approach is not just about reducing commute times but also aims to minimize traffic emissions, contributing to a healthier environment.
Nguyen Van Khue, a resident of Westbay in Ecopark, which is 14 kilometers east of Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, exemplifies the benefits of this lifestyle. His daily routine involves a mere five-minute drive to drop his children off at school within the Ecopark and an additional ten minutes to reach his workplace. "I’m really happy because in this busy life, we have more beautiful moments together," Khue expressed. He appreciates the time saved on commuting, allowing his family to enjoy quality time together.
Khue’s experience reflects a broader trend among the over 50,000 residents of Ecopark, who are embracing a sustainable lifestyle by utilizing local amenities and reducing travel time. Another resident, Thu Minh, participates in a dance club for seniors within the community, demonstrating how the design of the urban space fosters social connections and activities.
The concept of the "15-minute city" was first proposed in 2016 by French scholar Carlos Moreno and has gained traction worldwide as urban populations seek more efficient and sustainable living conditions. In Central Bay, this model is brought to life through thoughtful urban planning that includes residential areas, essential services, and recreational spaces all in close proximity.
At Central Bay, residents can enjoy a variety of activities without having to travel far. The precinct features a 5,000 square meter sports complex, a 2,800 square meter family park for camping and outdoor barbecues, and a sensory pathway designed to enhance the natural surroundings. These facilities encourage an active lifestyle and community engagement.
Education is also a priority in Central Bay, with the Campus education zone set to open in April 2025 and the FPT inter-level schools expected to begin construction in June 2025. The area includes a kindergarten spanning 3,000 square meters, providing parents with ample educational options for their children.
In addition to residential and educational facilities, Central Bay is equipped with a coworking space of 1,100 square meters, which includes outdoor areas and food and beverage services. This space will allow residents to work flexibly and connect with startup communities without the need to travel to distant offices or cafes.
The commercial center, covering 11,200 square meters, is slated to open in the fourth quarter of 2025 and will feature a vibrant food street spanning 4,300 square meters. This area is designed to host seasonal food festivals and street performances, providing a lively atmosphere for residents to enjoy meals with family and friends without venturing far from home.
Experts and investors have praised the "15-minute city" model at Central Bay for its potential to reduce negative environmental impacts by limiting vehicle traffic and promoting sustainable transportation methods like walking and cycling. Furthermore, this urban design enhances residents' quality of life by improving access to services and community amenities.
Central Bay is strategically located amidst the largest green park in Central Vietnam, allowing families to enjoy a harmonious balance between nature and urban conveniences. The design caters to the diverse needs of different generations, from the elderly seeking tranquility and health services to young families desiring quality education and recreational spaces.
As the founder of Ecopark explains, the aim is to create a living environment that meets the needs of all family members. "The elderly need quiet spaces close to nature, while the middle-aged seek flexible work environments and premium amenities. The younger generation desires play areas and good educational settings," he noted.
With the "15-minute city" model, Central Bay aims to provide a high-quality living environment that reflects the values and needs of urban residents, making it a pioneering project in Vietnam’s urban development landscape.
As this initiative unfolds, it promises to redefine urban living in Vietnam, setting a new standard for sustainable and convenient lifestyles.
