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FS visits Southern District (with photos/ video)
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     The Financial Secretary, Mr John C Tsang, today (January 28) visited the Southern District to see the successful example of revitalisation of industrial buildings to provide new momentum for economic growth.

     The first stop on the visit was the Horizon Plaza where Mr Tsang got a feel for a revitalised industrial building vibrant with business opportunities.  He visited a carpet designer and manufacturer, a wooden furniture designer and manufacturer as well as an antique and modern furniture designer and manufacturer.  Touring their showrooms, Mr Tsang was glad to see that local design was gaining popularity in the market.

     Horizon Plaza was originally built for industrial use with commencement of intake in 1993.  The Town Planning Board granted approval for conversion of the building for commercial use in 2003.  Afterwards, lease modification was approved by District Lands Conference in 2004.  With the approval of Town Planning Board and subsequent lease modification, the building has been converted for commercial use.  With an occupancy rate of about 95%, Horizon Plaza has now transformed into a retail and home furnishing outlet with more than 150 shops.

     "In his 2009-10 Policy Address the Chief Executive announced new measures to promote revitalisation of old industrial buildings to meet Hong Kong's changing economic and social needs.

     "We hope the move can provide new momentum for economic growth and create jobs," Mr Tsang said.

     Mr Tsang then went to the Harbour Industrial Centre to visit the first winery in Hong Kong.  Mr Tsang was introduced to the wine production process onsite.

     The last stop of the district visit was the Ap Lei Chau Community Hall where Mr Tsang had a tea gathering with the chairman, vice-chairman and committee chairmen of the Southern District Council to listen to their views on district governance.

     After the district visit, Mr Tsang went to the Leighton Hill Community Hall to attend the first of the four regional consultation forums on the 2010-11 Budget.  The four regional consultation forums are organised in Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, New Territories East and New Territories West regions to collect views from the community on the upcoming Budget.

Ends/Thursday, January 28, 2010
Issued at HKT 18:25

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