On Monday, a strategic pact was signed between the Zhuhai government and the Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Three districts – the Jida residential area, the New Yuanming Palace and the city’s high-tech zone – are involved in the project, which is due to be completed by October this year.

According to local media, the authorities are aiming to create a “new” and “high-quality” healthcare consumer experience.

The Zhuhai government is also looking to incorporate elements of food and beverage, tourism, regimen and culture into the project.

“The trend of Hong Kong and Macau residents driving north to spend money has become popular,” said Huang Zhihao, mayor of Zhuhai.

“However, this trend is mainly limited to dining out, late-night snacks and regular shopping, while the demand for a high-end lifestyle has yet to be met.”

The plan for a Chinese medicine hub comes as the local authorities set their sights on another leisure district long frequented by Macau residents.

Several bustling streets stretching for some 580 metres near the Border Gate will soon give rise to a new entertainment complex for “cultural tourism, consumption and socialising”.