The Civil Engineering and Development Department and the Planning Department today (May 22) launched the Stage 2 Public Engagement for the Pilot Study on Underground Space Development in Selected Strategic Urban Areas.

     The Study, which commenced in June 2015, aims to explore the potential for underground space development in four selected strategic urban areas (SUAs), namely Tsim Sha Tsui West, Causeway Bay, Happy Valley, and Admiralty/Wan Chai. As revealed by the Stage 1 Public Engagement completed in February 2017, the public generally agreed that the proper utilisation of underground space and provision of an all-weather pedestrian network could alleviate the overcrowded street-level walking environment and improve pedestrian connectivity. It could also provide diverse uses/facilities for the benefit of the community through a holistic planning approach. Among the conceptual schemes of the four SUAs, the Study recommends according priority to taking forward the Kowloon Park Conceptual Scheme in Tsim Sha Tsui West.

     The Kowloon Park Conceptual Scheme comprises multi-purpose underground space for accommodating an all-weather and barrier-free underground pedestrian network. Various facilities such as community space, retail/food and beverage and car-parking facilities are also included in the Scheme to address imminent needs and enhance the use of underground space.
 
     In formulating the proposed Kowloon Park Conceptual Scheme, consideration has been made to provide diversified space to enhance accessibility and walkability. The departments will also strive to minimise possible disruptions caused by underground space development to the park, retain Old and Valuable Trees in the park, and preserve built heritage and the Bird Lake. The proposed conceptual scheme will improve the park area's appearance and re-establish a sustainable green park after the underground space construction.
      
     The Stage 2 Public Engagement of the Study will last for three months to seek public views on the latest recommendations of the Study, including the proposed Kowloon Park Conceptual Scheme. Roving exhibitions, focus group meetings, weekend public events and consultations with key stakeholders will be held during the public engagement period. Virtual reality experiences will be introduced in some of the roving exhibitions to assist the public in understanding the future appearance of the proposed underground space and the rejuvenated Kowloon Park.
      
     The public engagement digest and details of activities are available on the Study website (www.urbanunderground.gov.hk). Members of the public are invited to provide feedback through the following channels on or before August 21, 2019:
 
Website: www.urbanunderground.gov.hk
E-mail:   info_urbanunderground@aecom.com
Fax:       2714 0247
Post:      11/F, Civil Engineering and Development Building, 
             101 Princess Margaret Road, Homantin, Kowloon
             (Please specify "Underground Space Development"
             on envelope)

Ends/Wednesday, May 22, 2019
Issued at HKT 16:55

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