Strategy

General strategies include:

- The creation of a physical limit between the protected archaeological reserve (Angkor Park) and urban development zones.

- The preservation of irrigated agricultural land at the city perimeter, most concentrated in the western sectors.

- The preservation of the city's unique character by maintaining its dense vegetation, spacious habitats and low skyline. The riverbanks, protected under zoning laws, will be strengthened and enhanced by natural landscaping.

- Urban development is concentrated to the east of the Siemreap river. Residential areas and new public services will be extended to the south along National Route 6. A Hotel Zone will be developed to the north of the highway. This area is unfavorable to local agricultural exploitation and development remains sparse. Land will be replanted with native species. A vast reforestation campaign to the south of the Angkor Park is to be undertaken. Preliminary studies are to determine species composition most useful to the local population.

To achieve these aims, a number of priority projects are to be implemented over the next five years. Through creation of an urban database, existing studies will be continually updated in view of increasing understanding of the region and the effects of development trends. In conjunction with the provision of primary services to the Hotel Zone, which will itself serve as a principal financial resource for continuing development, basic infrastructural improvements are to be made in and around the city. Preliminary studies have recommended further research into the reinforcement of existing water resource networks through two principal projects: the stabilization of the Siemreap riverbed and the rehabilitation of the Northern Baray. Existing road systems are to be improved and extended. Drinking water, sanitation and electrical systems are to be further developed. In the urban extension zone of the city's southeastern sector these improvements will be accompanied by traditional housing and landscaping projects.