The SAR government has invited market players to submit expressions of interest for eco-tourism development projects at the former Lamma Island quarry site, the South Lantau Eco-recreation Corridor, and Tsim Bei Tsui and Pak Nai, with the deadline set for early next month.
Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn said yesterday (June 28) that Lamma Island, with its hiking trails, traditional fish farms, and seafood streets, has the potential to become a tourist hotspot when these elements are connected. Among the three major areas, she believes Lamma Island can progress faster and further. The next step involves land-use planning, with a target completion date in the first half of next year, followed by formal tendering in the second half. The authorities will also explore ways to expedite the transportation and environmental impact assessment processes.
Earlier, the Development Bureau, in collaboration with the Education Bureau, launched a pilot scheme allowing hotels and commercial buildings to be converted into student dormitories without going through the usual planning procedures. Linn said yesterday that the scheme has been well-received by the market, describing it as "killing two birds with one stone" by addressing both the high vacancy rates in commercial buildings and the shortage of hostel spaces for tertiary students. Applications will open next month, and the industry estimates the conversions could be completed in as little as one year.
Linn noted that the dormitories are intended for tertiary students or above, who have bargaining power and options in the market, so the government does not need to impose too many regulations on aspects like floor area and ventilation. However, if only partial floors are converted, the authorities will more rigorously assess the dormitory layout's rationality and impose basic requirements, such as renting only to students approved by the university.
Regarding the development of the waterfront promenade, Linn mentioned that as residential projects in the former runway area of Kai Tak are gradually completed, the authorities have included clauses in the tender documents requiring developers to help connect the waterfront promenades in front of the residential projects. Currently, the Kai Tak waterfront promenade has been extended by about 2 kilometers, with more sections to be added in the next two years. The waterfront near the Hung Hom Ferry Pier will also be connected in the future.
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