LCQ15: Sea-crossing bridge project at Kwun Tong Typhoon Shelter
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Question:
In its reply to a question raised by a Member of this Council on the 6th of this month, the Government stated that it is studying the construction of a bridge across the Kwun Tong Typhoon Shelter to provide a direct linkage between the former Kai Tak runway area and Kwun Tong, thereby improving the external transportation connectivity of the former runway area, and is also exploring the option of adding vehicular lanes on the bridge. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) of the preliminary timetable and the scope of works for taking forward the aforesaid project;
(2) whether the Government will consider reserving space in the aforesaid project to allow the route of the Smart and Green Mass Transit System in Kai Tak to be extended to Kwun Tong, so as to meet long-term transport development needs; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
(3) whether it will take into account the future need to hold major sporting events (e.g. a harbourfront marathon) when designing the aforesaid project, so as to reserve space for staging such events and providing related facilities; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
Reply:
President,
The Government has been actively enhancing the overall transport network in Kowloon East, including the Kai Tak Development Area, to better meet the travel needs of the public. Among them, the Central Kowloon Bypass (Yau Ma Tei Section) was completed in 2025, while the Central Kowloon Bypass (Kowloon Bay Section) will soon be commissioned, significantly strengthening the connectivity of major transport corridors. On the other hand, the Government is pressing ahead with the Smart and Green Mass Transit System project in Kai Tak (Kai Tak Project), which serves as a light and green feeder service to the nearby railway station within the area to strengthen connections among the residential and commercial developments, facilities focused on tourism, culture and recreation, sports and the community within the area, as well as the connection with the railway network. Meanwhile, the Development Bureau (DEVB) is implementing a range of measures, including the construction of elevated walkways, to improve pedestrian accessibility and safety. Furthermore, the Government is studying the construction of a bridge across the Kwun Tong Typhoon Shelter (KTTS) to provide a direct linkage between the former Kai Tak runway area and Kwun Tong, thereby enhancing the external transportation connectivity of the former runway area.
In response to the Hon Yang Wing-kit's question, after consulting the Transport and Logistics Bureau, the reply is set out below:
(1) Regarding the proposed bridge across the KTTS, the DEVB originally proposed constructing a pedestrian and cyclist bridge with travellators, of approximately 600 metres in length, to enhance the connectivity and accessibility between the former Kai Tak runway area and the Kwun Tong Promenade in a more environmentally friendly approach. In response to public views, the Government is now exploring the feasibility of incorporating vehicular access into the design. The ongoing study will assess the technical viability of different options, including the alignment of the bridge and the connection points at both ends. The study will also be co-ordinated with the latest planning circumstances of the Kai Tak Development Area and its related transport infrastructure. Upon formulating feasible proposals, we will strive to consult relevant stakeholders and invite their views next year.
(2) To ensure the early completion of the Kai Tak Project, the Government will take forward the project based on the current alignment running along the former Kai Tak runway area with the termini connecting to the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal and the existing MTR Kai Tak Station, with a view to commencing construction works as soon as possible. After finalising the system and design adopted for the basic alignment of the Kai Tak Project, the Government will review the technical and financial feasibility of extending the system to other areas, such as Kwun Tong, in the future, and co-ordinate with the bridge project across the KTTS.
(3) The waterfront of the KTTS has been developed into a continuous promenade, parks, and event spaces, complemented by diversified recreational and public facilities. With the progressive implementation of works to connect the promenade and further enhance the waterfront sites, various organisations have successfully held a wide range of activities along the KTTS waterfront in recent years. While the DEVB has been developing high-quality waterfront spaces in Kowloon East for public enjoyment, it has also focused on providing ancillary facilities to transform the waterfront into a vibrant and dynamic public space, offering locals and visitors a more diverse and unique experience, valuing both quality and quantity. To encourage and facilitate diversified activities organised by various organisations so as to introduce new waterfront experiences to the public, the Energizing Kowloon East Office (EKEO) is committed to establishing direct communication channels between event organisers and relevant Government departments, with a view to continuously co-ordinating and streamlining the detailed arrangements of activities. Looking ahead, if events are planned to take place at the proposed bridge across the KTTS (such as a waterfront marathon), the EKEO will also provide assistance to the organisers to ensure smooth implementation and effective co-ordination.
Ends/Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Issued at HKT 11:08
Issued at HKT 11:08
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