The Summer Imperial Palace in Beijing, one of the items on the UNESCO World Heritage list, will be developed into a luxurious exclusive resort.

The 258-year old palace occupies about 290 hectares; it's one of the most prominent places of interest in Beijing. The Summer Palace includes a park ensemble with temples, pavilions and over 3,000 various structures altogether. Some of them will be restored to match the historical complex's style and turned into an elite club, reports The South China Morning Post.

Aman Resorts from Singapore, owner of 18 elite hotels in 12 countries, is in charge of the development work. The company's assets include a Philippines island and a natural reserve in Eastern Bali.

The original plan was to open the resort in August for the summer Olympics, but due to various problems it seems the opening will have to be postponed till autumn.

Construction of a hotel on the territory of the unique historical palace complex has caused indignation among residents of Beijing and tourists alike, who believe cultural heritage objects shouldn't be used for commercial purposes and must be opened to general public. The publication says nothing about the official reaction to the protests.

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