SHANGHAI'S parks will be more accommodating than ever this summer with extended hours, improved facilities and expanded security measures, greenery officials said yesterday.

Seven parks in downtown Huangpu District will extend their opening hours to 9pm year-round from today after having their lighting systems and surveillance cameras upgraded, and the frequency of security patrols will be increased after dark, the city's greenery authorities announced yesterday.

Fuxing Park, Huaihai Park, People's Park, Penglai Park, Gucheng Park, Liyuan Park and Jiuzi Park will be open between 5am and 9pm year-round. Until today they closed at 5pm or 6pm.