BEIJING, June 12 (Xinhua) -- The Tian'anmen Rostrum at the heart of China's capital is scheduled for renovations starting Friday, according to the management committee of the Tian'anmen Area.

The renovation plan for the landmark gate tower in Beijing has won approval from the State Administration of Cultural Heritage with the renovation work starting Friday, said the committee.

The temporary closure is to avoid potential safety risks to tourists.

Situated in front of the renowned Forbidden City, north of Tian'anmen Square, the Tian'anmen Rostrum is photographed by a large number of visitors each day.

The structure is scheduled to be reopened to the public late next April, but the renovation work is expected to be completely finished late next May, it said.

Over the years, the Tian'anmen Rostrum has faced problems including water percolation, peeling paint, and general wear and tear.

The gate tower, whose name literally means the Gate of Heavenly Peace, was where China's late Chairman Mao Zedong proclaimed the founding of the People's Republic of China and where his successors witnessed the grand ceremonies of China's anniversaries.

2019 marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.