Gradual Closure of Kwun Tong Town Centre “Free Space” for Preparatory Works, Recreational and Sports Facilities Gifted to Light Public Housing

In early 2023, after rejecting the tender submission received for the final phase of the Kwun Tong Town Centre (KTTC) development project, the Urban Renewal Authority (URA) applied to the Government for temporary use of the land originally designated for redevelopment through short term tenancy. This open area, named as "Free Space," was made available to the public for various recreational activities, including outdoor sports, art and cultural events, as well as a playground. The aim was to foster community engagement and keep the area vibrant before the preparatory works for the KTTC 2.0 project commenced.

Over the past year, the URA has partnered with government departments and local organisations to host over 50 public events at Free Space, such as the “Year of Dragon Kwun Tong Night Bazaar” and an outdoor Christmas market. These events garnered more than 1.5 million footfall, enhancing local engagement, boosting the business environment, and contributing positively to the district's economy.

Recently, media reports have raised concerns from netizens regarding the closure and dismantling of the children's playground and 3x3 basketball court at Free Space within a year of operation. While the URA acknowledges these public concerns, it has made it clear from the outset that Free Space was intended to be temporary during the planning phase of KTTC 2.0. It was considered more beneficial to open the land for public use rather than leaving it idle during this period.

Advancing Underground Utilities Works to Expedite Project Progress

While residents, district councillors, and other local stakeholders envision a brighter future for KTTC 2.0 and eagerly await the project's completion for the benefit of the community, the area will necessitate significant infrastructure developments. These include road diversions, a platform connecting to the Kwun Tong MTR station, pedestrian bridges linking Tsun Yip Lane and APM Mall, along with the relocation of various underground utilities such as high-voltage cables, fiber-optic lines, and major water and drainage pipelines. To expedite progress, the URA has completed technical studies and drafted plans for the relocation and replacement of these underground utilities, which have received approval from the relevant government departments.

In July of last year, the URA applied for a new short-term tenancy from the Lands Department for the children’s playground, 3x3 basketball court, and Urban Town Lab 2 sites to begin preparatory works for relocating underground utilities. This new lease was granted in late October and took effect in November, designating the area as a "Works Site." Consequently, it can only be used for construction purposes, with the URA responsible for ensuring the safety of both the public and the construction site.

Closure of Playgrounds and Sports Facilities for Preliminary Works

In early November of last year, the URA posted notices at the site informing the public that the outdoor children’s playground, 3x3 basketball court, and Urban Town Lab 2 would permanently close on November 18. Security guards were stationed to prevent unauthorised entry into the construction area, and fences were erected to ensure public safety.

Underground utility detection work at the site have been completed, confirming that the location of the existing utilities aligns with the approved plans and construction diagrams. Over the coming months, work will proceed in stages, including excavation and the relocation and replacement of underground utilities, with reconnections to the existing network upon completion to ensure the continuation of services to the residents in the vicinity.

Currently, only a portion of Free Space is closed, while other areas remain open. Later this year, additional sections of Free Space will gradually close as necessary for the construction activities. However, the pedestrian link through Free Space, connecting the MTR stations and Yue Man Square, will remain accessible.

Recreational and Sports Facilities Gifted to Light Public Housing Projects

In preparing for the closure of certain areas, the URA noted that the playground and sports facilities, having been in use for just about a year, were still in good condition. To avoid waste, the URA proactively reached out to government departments, local groups, and NGOs to offer the facilities. The Housing Bureau accepted most of the recreational and sports equipment for two of its light public housing projects. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Housing Bureau for supporting the URA in recycling the facilities and promoting waste reduction.

To facilitate the transfer of equipment, the URA provided free transportation and installation services for the Housing Bureau. Two basketball hoops were delivered to the Yau Pok Road light public housing project in Yuen Long, which is scheduled to intake in March. Due to the size and weight of each hoop—approximately 1,000 kilograms — a crane was arranged for direct transportation from Kwun Tong to the Yau Pok Road site, minimising the risk of damage during transit.

Additionally, some smaller recreational facilities will be relocated to the light public housing project in Lok On Pai, Siu Lam. Since this project is still under construction, the facilities will be temporarily stored at Free Space until delivery for installation on-site as the project nears completion. The management company of the light public housing projects will oversee the future maintenance and repair of these facilities.

Advancing Towards the Vision of KTTC 2.0

The renewal of Kwun Tong Town Centre and the realisation of KTTC 2.0 is a complex and extensive mission that requires sustained effort. The URA has been striving to ensure the project's success by employing strategies such as adopting "float planning parameters," trialling the concept of a "Vertical City," and introducing the projects to both local and overseas developers. Every step — ranging from conducting technical studies to repurposing temporary recreational and sports facilities to avoid waste—demonstrates the dedication and resilience of the URA team. These efforts, which exceed the typical scope of private development projects, underscore the URA's commitment to the long-term success of KTTC 2.0. We look forward to ongoing public support and positive feedback as we move forward steadfastly in achieving our objectives.