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In response to the media enquiries on the Rehearsal Days of Hong Kong Disneyland, a Government spokesman said today (September 5) that the Steering Committee on Implementation of Hong Kong Disneyland chaired by the Financial Secretary had an extensive discussion with the theme park operator, the Hongkong International Theme Park Ltd (HKITP) this afternoon.
HKITP reported the experience of operation of the Rehearsal Day to the Steering Committee and acknowledged that there were areas for improvements and adjustments.
The Rehearsal Days of Hong Kong Disneyland last from August 16 to September 9, 2005. The idea is to gradually build up park attendance and stress test the facilities and attractions in the theme park. The purpose is to ensure that Park operations will be smooth upon official opening and provide opportunities for staff training. The stress test has served its purpose and Hong Kong Disneyland has learnt lessons such as the arrival, behavioral and consumption patterns of visitors during different sessions of the Rehearsal Days and measures will be taken to fine-tune its operation in accordance with the experience gained.
The discussion today covered different operational issues related to the Rehearsal Day including the theme park capacity, entry arrangements, queue management, food and beverage facilities, seating area, car parking arrangements, etc. HKITP has undertaken to implement improvement measures in respect of the software and hardware of the theme park.
Regarding the theme park capacity, HKITP would closely monitor and flexibly manage the post-opening theme park attendance in order to give an enjoyable park experience to all visitors. It will consider not driving to the design capacity of the theme park particularly during the coming Mid-Autumn Festival and National Golden Week holidays.
"It is understandable that for a large-scale project like Hong Kong Disneyland to encounter some operational issues during the test phase. This is what the Rehearsal Days sets out to do i.e. to identify issues for improvement. We hope the public can understand and give HKITP some time to adjust its operation and address these issues. The Government will continue to work closely with HKITP to ensure a smooth opening," the spokesman said.
Ends/Monday, September 5, 2005
Issued at HKT 19:58
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