Hong Kong has recently announced a new development plan for the oyster farm area of Lau Fau Shan, located near the city's border with Shenzhen. The plan aims to transform this region into a thriving digital technology and eco-tourism hub, with a strong focus on private sector engagement.
Encompassing Lau Fau Shan, Tsim Bei Tsui, and Pak Nai, the 411-hectare plan targets the construction of up to 53,000 flats. This initiative falls under the larger Northern Metropolis project, which seeks to develop 30,000 hectares of land in the northern New Territories.
In addition to the residential development, the plan includes an extension of the existing logistics hub in the Hung Shui Kiu and Ha Tsuen areas. Furthermore, two eco-tourism nodes will be established in the coastal areas of Tsim Bei Tsui and Pak Nai, featuring resorts, weekend markets, and camping sites. Authorities have expressed their intention to create a coastal protection park along the 10.7-km coastline. However, the size of the park will only be confirmed after the completion of a study by the Agriculture, Fisheries, and Conservation Department later this year.
To address potential environmental impacts, the bureau responsible for the project will conduct an environmental impact assessment and implement necessary mitigation measures at a later stage. They will also explore the possibility of preserving the existing Lau Fau Shan seafood market, which has long been a popular local dining destination.
While the development plan offers exciting opportunities, concerns have been raised by environmental advocates. Roy Ng Hei-man from the Conservancy Association highlighted the area's classification as an important bird's area with valuable ecological resources such as mangroves and horseshoe crabs. He expressed concerns about maintaining conservation priorities amidst the proposed recreational development.
Brian Wong Shiu-hung, a member of the Liber Research Community, voiced concerns regarding potential environmental damage resulting from the plan. The wetlands and mangroves in the area have already been threatened by the expansion of brownfield sites and illegal waste dumping. He emphasized the need for meaningful conservation efforts before any destructive actions are taken by landowners anticipating development.
In response to safety issues, the Development Bureau plans to conduct annual drone inspections at 360 high-risk buildings and perform necessary emergency repairs. They will also prioritize instructing owners of high-risk buildings to conduct mandatory inspections, particularly those without owners' corporations or with complaints regarding facade defects. Stricter rules have been introduced to expedite the checking process for building owners participating in a compulsory inspection subsidy scheme.
