Construction on a Ningbo academician center is expected to be completed after the Spring Festival, which falls on Jan 25 this year, local media reported.

Situated on Taogong Island in Dongqian Lake scenic spot, the center is part of efforts by local authorities to attract high profile professionals to the city.

With an investment of 500 billion yuan ($74.6 billion), the center, consisting of two teaching complexes, a canteen building and an apartment building, will cover an area of 52.7 mu (3.51 hectares).

It is designed to be an academician workstation with a focus on innovation, communication, consultation, training, and business incubation.

To date, 10 academicians have expressed plans to work at the center, with more expected to join in the future.

A conceptual rendering of the Ningbo academician center currently under construction. [Photo/cnnb.com.cn]