| Sufficient flexibility is
provided for further modifications in the functional distribution in light of future
market conditions. The following are the main considerations ensuring proper provision of
the various functions and activities: A)
FINANCIAL, BUSINESS AND ANCILLARY SERVICES:
In the modern financial center planned on the sea-front,
national and international companies operating in the region will have a prestigious
location for their headquartersor local branches. This center will be equipped with
sophisticated infrastructure facilities and be easily accessible from the city and the
airport.
Maritime agencies, wholesale and import-export companies will find in the BCD
convenient locations for their operations, particularly in view of its proximity to the
port.
Riad al Solh Street has traditionally been Lebanon's banking headquarters. Most
of the buildings on this street have not been seriously damaged and will be refurbished.
Small service companies will be attracted to the BCD, as they were before the
war.
B) RESIDENTIAL:
Traditionally an integral component of the BCD, residential
buildings established a necessary continuity with adjacent residential areas outside the
Central District and contributed in keeping the center alive outside business hours. The
shortage of h ousing in Beirut, along with the planned attractive urban environment, will
make the BCD residential facilities - catering to various income groups - all the more
needed.
C) COMMERCIAL:
Commercial establishments previously located in the area will
be attracted back to the BCD on account of its central location, modern infrastructure,
pedestrian zones, and new attractive urban landscape.
The reconstruction of pedestrian Souks is expected to be a catalyst in the
development of specialized retail and small businesses.
Retail establishments and small businesses will benefit from their proximity
toother businesses - wholesale, brokerage and transport agencies - and to the planned
residential, recreational and cultural developments in the BCD. |
Business & 
