Pioneering Urban Development: Nghe An’s Central Hub Sets the Standard for Next-Generation Cities

Urban lifestyles and consumer behaviors are evolving, driving the development of new-generation urban models.

Nghe An: The Economic Hub of North Central Vietnam

With its strategic location, abundant resources, and a robust workforce, Nghe An is steadily establishing itself as the economic hub of North Central Vietnam—a key driver of the nation’s economic growth.

Vinh City Center, April 2025. Photo: Duc Hung

Its well-developed infrastructure—spanning maritime, riverine, aviation, rail, and road networks—has solidified its economic prowess, making it a top FDI destination nationwide. The Cu Lao Port and Vinh Airport are undergoing upgrades to meet the growing demand for cargo and passenger transport. This not only positions Nghe An as a vital logistics hub but also facilitates easier access to international markets for local businesses. To date, several sections of the North-South Expressway have been opened, reducing travel time between Nghe An and key economic regions in the North, particularly Hanoi, to just 3.5 hours.

Improved transportation connectivity between Nghe An and Hanoi. Photo: Cafef.vn

Economic growth is accompanied by a shift in consumer preferences and a heightened demand for quality living among urban residents. Beyond emulating major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Nghe An’s urban areas are setting higher standards, meeting stringent criteria: catering to diverse, modern consumer needs while emphasizing aesthetics, cultural value, and sustainable development.

Sustainable, green transportation infrastructure with meticulous planning

These stringent consumer demands have spurred the emergence of new-generation urban models, surpassing the limitations of traditional urban designs. For instance, narrow transportation infrastructure is no longer viable as residents increasingly own vehicles. Urban areas now require not only wider roads but also shaded spaces, green infrastructure, and deeper experiential amenities: advanced commercial services, international schools, state-of-the-art hospitals, health-focused facilities like sports complexes, four-season salt-electrolysis swimming pools, and high-quality artistic spaces such as musical fountains and art squares that support diverse cultural and social activities. Residents seek a blend of modern convenience and strong community connections, with a collective voice on societal issues. This has propelled the development of well-planned, model megacities in Nghe An, positioning it ahead of Da Nang, Can Tho, and other major cities in terms of urban living standards, rivaling those of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Model Megacity in the Heart of Nghe An

Extensive greenery and water features at Eco Central Park, adapting to Nghe An’s climate

Eco Central Park exemplifies this new-generation megacity model, harmonizing scale, utility, commercial services, and lifestyle. Its impressive urban planning is reflected in three key metrics: 43% of the area is dedicated to landscaping, including parks, squares, water features, walkways, sports fields, communal gardens, and private resident gardens; 39% is allocated to transportation infrastructure and resident amenities, notably wide roads (70m, 34m, 24.5m, and minimum 14m internal roads) complemented by multilayered green landscapes; and only 19% is designated for construction. This ensures that homes are not just confined spaces but part of a holistic environment enriching generations.

This has drawn thousands of real estate professionals from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Eco Central Park to study this innovative megacity model.

Delegations visiting Eco Central Park

On September 16th, Phat Nguyen from IQI Vietnam in Ho Chi Minh City shared: “Having been part of numerous megacity developments in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, we were truly impressed by Eco Central Park. It seamlessly blends modern luxury with local cultural preservation, such as native tree conservation parks, experimental learning campuses, and large-scale water features creating a microclimate that cools Vinh City’s summers. Iconic structures like the Central Park Residences tower, musical fountains, and light squares showcase Nghe An’s dynamic growth. The transportation infrastructure, with roads 2-3 times wider than other cities, and the seamless integration of amenities and services, rival Singapore’s urban planning vision.”

The musical fountain square, a new entertainment hub for Nghe An residents

Vibrant life in Central Vietnam’s largest green megacity

Meticulous planning and connectivity have made Eco Central Park a benchmark urban development in Nghe An, hosting numerous cultural, social, and entertainment events for the province and former Vinh City. The megacity’s allure is shifting resident priorities from individual homes to stringent living standards, emphasizing integrated modern amenities, security, and quality.