Working closely with architects SOM and our colleagues based in the UK, USA and China, our team prepared a detailed economic strategy to support a concept masterplan for the proposed JingJin New Economic City. A key driver for the new city was the desire to create stronger economic linkages between Tianjin and the capital Beijing, thus reinforcing economic opportunities and drawing in new forms of investment. The team undertook significant work determining land use patterns and phasing, as well as detailed modelling. The proposed development, based within the municipality of Tianjin City, is substantial in scale with a final target population of over 300,000. The economic study involved significant data collection, analysis and interpretation of primary and secondary data sources, detailed stakeholder consultation, as well as case study review of best practice in developing sustainable new cities. We provided a SMART City strategy and provided an ICT plan that future proofed the City through the inclusion and integration of appropriate SMART technologies. The client required an economic strategy that would support the successful development of a sustainable industrial base within the new city, generating high levels of employment in technologically advanced, high value industries that would be internationally competitive. The analysis involved identification and assessment of viable industry sectors that would maximise the successful development of the city. Water based industries in particular were assessed for their possible role in supporting the City’s development given large volumes of water present on the site and the existing role of aquaculture and other water-based activities. In addition, a range of sub-sectors associated with digital technology, environmental technologies, creative and cultural industries, software design, as well as health care and executive education were tested for their viability in terms of long-term economic prospects and fit with evolving industrial policy in China. The teams also provided energy and solid waste strategies alongside a transport plan that incorporated regional LRT and metro transit improvements in addition to local LRT and subway systems to support new highway infrastructure. The transport plan also promoted non-motorised movement with the inclusion of a city wide network of cycle and dedicated walking routes away from primary highway networks. Key facts Will be the largest centre for hydro-research in China Will have a population in excess of 300,000 by the completion of the final phase in year 10 Uses an innovative residential population model incorporating Chinese demographic trends