The usage of the Hong Kong Coliseum has always been highly competitive, with a utilization rate reaching 100% over the past three years, said Rosanna Law, Secretary of the Cultural, Sports and Tourism.
According to government figures, the Coliseum received a total of 220 booking applications this year, of which 37 were approved and 183 were rejected. In a written response to Legislative Council Member Adrian Ho from the New People's Party, Law explained that the Coliseum is considered an important venue for sports events, and as such, applications for large-scale sports activities are given priority.
"The Coliseum has also been popular among organizers of large events and concerts. For example, of the approved applications this year, 22% were for major sports events, while the remainder were for performing arts, with 59% being concerts."
She noted that due to the high demand for the Coliseum if more than one organization applies for the same time slot, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department will consider factors such as the nature, importance, and appeal of the event, the popularity of the performers, and the applicant's past booking record when processing applications.
Law expressed confidence that the Kai Tak Sports Park, set to open in the first quarter of next year, will be well-received by organizers of large events. The government will continue to maintain close communication with Kai Tak Sports Park Limited to promote the park as an ideal destination for major local and international sports, performances, and entertainment events.
According to Law, the Hong Kong Tourism Board will continue to serve as the primary contact point, working closely with government departments and event organizers to attract more new and large-scale events to Hong Kong. With the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Park, the aim is to establish Hong Kong as a "Premier Hub for Mega Events," maximizing benefits for the region.
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