​At its meeting today (November 8), the Land and Development Advisory Committee was briefed by the Development Bureau (DEVB) on major initiatives related to the Bureau in "The Chief Executive's 2022 Policy Address".

     Members welcomed the Government's determination in tackling land and housing problems as demonstrated in the latest Policy Address. Members showed recognition towards the guiding policy principles of "enhancing quantity, speed, efficiency and quality" for land development. The objective was to expedite land production and build a land reserve, so as to ensure sufficient land supply for supporting various needs of society. This would address the housing problems on the one hand, and improve citizens' quality of life and create strong impetus for growth of Hong Kong on the other.

     Members suggested that the Government keep the land production estimates and schedules under review. While adopting an aggressive approach to enhance quantity and speed, the Government should give due attention to the quality of the city environment, public participation and stakeholder engagement. Members also saw room for allowing private participation in the Government-led development initiatives where such participation would also contribute to the delivery of Government's policy objectives. With a significant increase in the quantum of capital works in the years to come, Members hoped the Government could provide support to relevant sectors for coping with the manpower demand and adopting new technologies such as Building Information Modelling and Modular Integrated Construction (MiC). Members also remarked on the need to provide infrastructures to support the various development initiatives in a timely manner, step up the provision of facilities for the elderly, and adopt a forward-looking and innovative approach in planning for the long-term needs of the city. Constructive dialogue with relevant stakeholders across different sectors should continue.

     The Secretary for Development thanked Members for their support and valuable suggestions and highlighted the need for sustaining Government's efforts in increasing land supply with a view to delivering adequate land to meet the long-term needs of Hong Kong, and catering to contingencies which may come up during the development process. The DEVB will take into account Members' views and join hands with various sectors and stakeholders to take forward the various policies and initiatives as early as possible. The Government would also enhance communication with those affected by development projects in a people-oriented manner.

     At today's meeting, Members considered that the wide range of initiatives announced in the Policy Address had incorporated public views comprehensively. On enhancing quantity, Members noted that the DEVB will deliver around 3 300 hectares of newly formed land in the next decade, update the 10-year supply forecast of developable land annually, take forward the Northern Metropolis initiatives at full steam, strive for commencement of the reclamation works of Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands in 2025, and kick-start the necessary studies for about 255 hectares of land identified under the new round of "Green Belt" review. On enhancing speed and efficiency, the DEVB will submit to the Legislative Council within this year a bill on streamlining the development process, continue its work to streamline and rationalise various administrative procedures, including reviewing the gross floor area concession arrangement for carparks and extending the use of standard rates in charging land premium, promote wider adoption of MiC technology, and expedite the approval of building plans through dedicated processing units to be established in the Buildings Department. On enhancing quality, major initiatives include updating and streamlining the compulsory sale regime to facilitate urban renewal of old areas, and developing a "Round-the-Island Trail" on Hong Kong Island.

Ends/Tuesday, November 8, 2022
Issued at HKT 20:05

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