************************************************

The Town Planning Board today (April 4) launched a new online information service enabling the public to browse records of all planning applications, as well as objections and requests for amendments to statutory plans.

Named ePlanningInfo, the service provides essential information about every planning submission received by the Town Planning Board.

A spokesman for the Town Planning Board said the service uses Geographical Information System technology to give the public round-the-clock access to planning information through the Internet.

"The public can now acquire online information about new planning proposals in the neighbourhoods that interest them," the spokesman said.

"The new one-stop planning information service will substantially improve the efficiency and quality of the Board's services to the public."

Planning submissions can be searched online by building name, street number or lot number. Each search prompts an electronic map showing the location of the premises concerned and provides links to information about the history and particulars of the submissions.

The new service is accessible on the Town Planning Board's homepage at www.info.gov.hk/tpb or www.ozp.tpb.gov.hk/epa.

End/Friday, April 4, 2003

NNNN