The proposal forms part of a comprehensive revision of the park's detailed development plan, which is currently open for public consultation.
According to Nguyen Anh Dung, vice-chairman of Giang Vo Ward People's Committee, the revised plan would reorganise the area surrounding Voi Phuc Temple, reducing noise from entertainment facilities while expanding greenery and protecting the heritage landscape.
Voi Phuc Temple is one of the four sacred temples traditionally guarding the ancient Thang Long Citadel. Located within Thu Le Park, it is surrounded by recreational facilities, green spaces and waterways.
Under the proposed plan, existing high-intensity amusement rides near the temple would be removed to create a quieter setting for worshippers and visitors.
The cleared land would be converted into a festival square, landscaped gardens and pedestrian paths, providing space for cultural activities and community gatherings.
An ecological buffer zone featuring trees and walkways would also be established around the temple to reduce disturbance from nearby entertainment activities.
Building heights and pedestrian links
The proposal also seeks to restrict new public facilities near the temple to a single storey, with a maximum height of four metres, to preserve views and maintain architectural harmony with the historic site.
A pedestrian route would connect the public square near S8 station on Metro Line 3 with the temple, Thu Le Lake and other areas of the park.
Planners are also considering a pedestrian underpass beneath Buoi Road or a signal-controlled crossing to connect Thu Le Park with the green corridor along the To Lich River.
These measures are intended to create a connected network of cultural and ecological spaces, with Voi Phuc Temple serving as its historical centre.
Part of wider park renovation
The planning area covers approximately 18.9 hectares in Giang Vo Ward.
Established in 1975-1976, Thu Le Park has long been a popular recreational destination, but many of its facilities, animal enclosures and infrastructure have deteriorated.
The park's detailed development plan was approved in 2010 and partially revised in 2018 and 2019, although some improvements have been delayed.
Hanoi has approved an overall investment policy worth more than VND 886 billion (USD 33.7 million) for upgrading several parks, including Thu Le, Thong Nhat and Bach Thao.
The Hanoi Civil Construction Investment Project Management Board has been assigned to oversee Thu Le Park's renovation.
The proposed changes around Voi Phuc Temple form part of this broader redevelopment effort, aimed at balancing recreational needs with heritage conservation.
Authorities will need to determine which facilities should be relocated, how cleared land will be used and how public activities can coexist with the temple's religious functions.
The removal of amusement rides, creation of a festival square and restrictions on building heights remain planning proposals and have not yet received final construction approval.