​Building works contractors of the Integrated Rehabilitation Services Complex in Kwun Tong, China Harbour Engineering Company Limited, Zhen Hua Engineering Company Limited and Ming Suen Construction Company Limited, illegally carried out works on holidays. They were convicted by Kwun Tong Magistrates' Courts today (January 18) and on November 29 last year for contravening the Noise Control Ordinance (NCO) and were fined a total of $31,000.
      
     The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) received a complaint from a member of the public last April about noise nuisance generated on Sundays by the Integrated Rehabilitation Services Complex construction site, which is located at 4 Fuk Tong Road in Kwun Tong. Upon investigation by EPD staff, it was confirmed that the construction site concerned carried out hammering and handling of scaffolding materials on holidays and the contractors had not obtained any construction noise permit (CNP) prior to the commencement of works. After evidence gathering, the EPD initiated prosecution against the main contractor (a joint venture of China Harbour Engineering Company Limited and Zhen Hua Engineering Company Limited) and the sub-contractor, Ming Suen Construction Company Limited. The EPD also contacted the Social Welfare Department to assist in following up on the case and ensure that construction works are carried out in accordance with the statutory requirements.
      
     The EPD spokesman stressed that members of the construction industry should carry out works during daytime and non-general holidays as far as possible, and they should supervise the works to minimise noise disturbance to nearby residents. If the works procedures have to be conducted during the restricted hours (between 7pm and 7am on the following day, or at any time on a general holiday), a permit must be obtained from the EPD. The construction works shall commence only when the CNP has been granted upon completion of assessment to support its compliance with regulatory requirements. Noise mitigation measures should also be implemented for the construction works as stipulated by the CNP. For construction works that violate the NCO, first-time offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $100,000. A maximum fine of $200,000 may be imposed on second or subsequent convictions.

Ends/Friday, January 18, 2019
Issued at HKT 15:10

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