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The Government announced today (August 16) that Tseung Kwan O Town Lot No. 81 had been awarded to the Hong Kong Digital Movie City Company Limited at a tendered price of $18 million.

"Hong Kong Digital Movie City Company Limited has pledged to build a state-of-the-art film studio with advanced post-production facilities. This will strengthen our film production capabilities and enhance Hong Kong's position as a post-production service centre in Asia," a Government spokesman said.

"We are committed to promoting the healthy and long term development of the film industry. We shall continue to explore areas where Government's support is needed," he added.

The site awarded occupies an area of 14,600 square metres and can be developed to a gross floor area of 29,200 square metres. It is the second lot of a site in Tseung Kwan O Area 106, which was designated for film production use in 1997 and subdivided into two lots for tender.

The first lot, Tseung Kwan O Town Lot No. 67, of about three hectares was put out for tender in March 1998 and was awarded to the Hong Kong Movie City Company Limited in August 1998.

Tender invitation for the second lot was published on 31 March this year and was closed on 23 June. One submission was received. The tender was assessed on the basis of several factors including the premium offered, the business plan as well as the likely contributions the development can bring to the film industry. The lot was awarded to the Hong Kong Digital Movie City Company Limited.

END/Wednesday, August 16, 2000

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