Local authorities postponed a public hearing planned for yesterday to decide the fate of Xiushui Market, the most famous outdoor clothing marketplace in Beijing for foreign tourists, an official said on Wednesday.

Built in 1984 next to the embassy area in the nation's capital, the market is actually a commercial street that receives 20,000 to 30,000 visitors a day and generates an annual turnover exceeding 100 million yuan (US$12 million).

It has become one of the three best-known destinations for international tourists to Beijing. The other two are the Great Wall and the Forbidden City.

The local government is considering removing the market, owing in factors such as hidden dangers to fire prevention and road safety. But the purported move has drawn criticism and opposition from the general public, especially shop owners at the market.

To seek a solution, the government had decided that two separate hearings would be held yesterday and today to solicit opinions from representatives of shop owners and the general public.

"The public hearings will be held when all preparations are made," said Su Min, head of the local neighborhood committee .

Source: China Daily