Page 11 - Land2.5_EN_Final_C
P. 11
10. The eastern part of the Hong Kong waters contain quite a
number of coastlines with high ecological value, whereas the
western waters have also been limited by large-scale infrastruc-
ture projects. In contrast, the central waters has a relatively low
ecological value and hence higher potential for development of
artificial islands. Apart from the East Lantau Metropolis, south of
Cheung Chau is the only area in Hong Kong where large-scale
reclamation is possible. Construction of an artificial island of
more than 2,000 hectares could be considered in the region. If
needed, the land so created may be considered for the relocation
of the existing logistics services at Kwai Chung Container
Terminals and brownfield sites to make room for development.
11. The Kwai Chung Container Terminals, together with the
surrounding logistics sites, and the government's proposed
reclamation of Tsing Yi South have a combined area of nearly
1,000 hectares. They are located at the heart of urban areas with
well-developed tra c network, and therefore can be considered
for residential development of mainly subsidized housing and
other purposes to satisfy the socio-economic and livelihood
needs. In addition, reclamation in Po Toi Island may be
considered for redeployment of government facilities such as
existing prisons, while the original land can be used for
development of higher valued purposes. Since the coastal waters
near Cheung Chau and South Lantau have already been classified
as recreational uses, coupled with the high development value of
Lamma Island for its proximity to Hong Kong Island, OHKF
opposes the classification of the coastal waters of Lamma Island
for recreational uses. Together with Tuen Mun, Tseung Kwan O
and West Lamma, the above five reclamation sites can provide
more than 3,500 hectares of land.
12. OHKF believes that development and conservation are not mutually
exclusive. Through comprehensive planning that connects environ-
mental protection with urban development, it can raise the public
awareness towards sustainability and improve living standards.
Di erent areas of Hong Kong have di erent development potentials,
transport facilities, community facilities, and environmental carrying
capacity. Therefore, it is extremely important to devise a development
strategy that caters to the geographical di erences of di erent areas.
In addition, OHKF recommends the use of advanced reclamation
methods to reduce the impact on marine ecology and the rate of
subsidence in future reclamation areas, as well as the introduction of
eco-coastline at suitable locations in the new reclamation area.
11