Chief Executive John Lee stated during last month's Legislative Council's interactive question-and-answer session that the overall development of the Northern Metropolis is crucial for Hong Kong. He expressed his urgency regarding the pace of development in the Northern Metropolis, believing that various aspects of development need to be accelerated and deepened. He emphasized the importance of coordinated leadership and explored the possibility of expediting development through legal amendments.
In response to questions from Legislative Council members, Lee noted that the government has traditionally focused on land and housing, often overlooking the mindset of "industrial development." However, given the changing market and fiscal conditions, he believes that an industry-led approach should be adopted, with a greater emphasis on the economic value generated by industries.
The government published the "Northern Metropolis Action Agenda" in 2023, dividing the area into four development zones from west to east: a high-end professional services and logistics hub, an innovation and technology zone, a trade and industrial area, and a blue-green recreational tourism ecosystem.
To accelerate the development of the Northern Metropolis and alleviate the government's financial burden, the Development Bureau has proposed pilot area development in three zones: the Hong Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area, the Fanling North New Development Area, and the San Tin Technopole. These areas will be opened to market tender as distinct zones, utilizing corporate funding and resources for more efficient development.
Lee pointed out that the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park, as well as the overall development of San Tin Technopole, requires overcoming legal and policy constraints between the two regions. This can facilitate the flow of people, goods, capital, and data, transforming the area into a demonstration site for technological leadership, cutting-edge research and development, and the practical application of research results, while also promoting the establishment of high-end manufacturing industries. The first batch of researchers is expected to begin moving into the Hong Kong section of the Hetao Hong Kong Park in the second half of this year.
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