By David Doyle

Prince Charles has proposed using Feng Shui to make London’s Chinatown more authentically Oriental.

In a set of design proposals released today, the Prince’s Foundation for the Built Environment said Feng Shui, the ancient art of designing and arranging buildings to ensure a favourable flow of energy, and Chinese mythology will play a major role in Chinatown’s designs.

Another recommendation is the creation of a timber pagoda to promote Chinese craftmanship and architecture

‘Chinatown will be adapting to the challenges of the 21st century using the best of both Chinese and British craftsmanship to ensure the area retains its distinctive mix of both traditions,' said Hank Ditmar, chief executive of the Prince's Foundation.

‘The traditional buildings and street pattern of this part of Georgian London have adapted incredibly throughout the last century to accommodate the emerging Chinese life and culture and now plans are underway to make it even more vibrant.’

‘We are working towards the goal of making London’s Chinatown the best in the world, and although it clearly has its own distinct identity, these plans will help to make it become more authentic,’ added Robert Davis, deputy leader of Westminster City Council, which is partnering the Prince’s Foundation on the plans.

Other plans include naming the nine entrances and exits to Chinatown after nine ancient Chinese dragons, and reopening the Leicester Square tube station at the corner of Little Newport Street and Charing Cross Road so Chinatown has its own tube entrance.

A full report will be published in September.