STH visits Yau Lai Estate and Domain in Yau Tong (with photos)
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     The Secretary for Transport and Housing, Ms Eva Cheng, today (March 15) visited the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA)'s mega-commercial centre Domain in Yau Tong to learn about the progress of the project. She also visited the nearby Yau Lai Estate.   

     Domain is the HA's latest commercial project. Located next to the MTR Yau Tong Station, the commercial centre has a total gross floor area of about 45,000 square metres. The four-level retail space can accommodate some 150 shops of different varieties. The project also includes a community hall and a public transport interchange for buses, minibuses and cross-border coaches.

     Ms Cheng was glad to learn that the project was in good progress and Domain has been scheduled for opening in the latter half of the year. So far, about 60 per cent of the lettable area has already been committed. While the commercial project will become another place of enjoyment for about 80,000 people in the neighbourhood, it will also provide them with more convenience and shopping choices.  

     Domain has adopted a number of sustainable designs. These include a hybrid ventilation system which allows natural ventilation, a green roof garden, light tubes with natural lighting, an irrigation system using reclaimed air-conditioners' condensate and a food waste pulping system.
 
     Ms Cheng also visited Yau Lai Estate and an elderly couple tenant in the Estate. The tenant applied for public housing through the Elderly Persons Priority Scheme in 2007 and in about two years they were allocated the unit. The couple expressed that they were happy with the new living environment. "The flat is spacious and has a good view. A wide range of cultural, recreational and ancillary facilities are available in the community. Transportation is also convenient. We have a happy and rich life here," they told Ms Cheng.

Ends/Thursday, March 15, 2012
Issued at HKT 20:31

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