Findings of HKU survey on Kwun Tong Town Centre Redevelopment Project : URA's response
In response to media inquiries about the release today
(Wednesday) of a public consultation report by a research team of
the University of Hong Kong on Urban Renewal Authority's intended
redevelopment of the Kwun Tong Town Centre, a spokesperson of the
Authority makes the following statement:
"The two-month consultation exercise was a success.
Throughout this period, we received numerous positive and
constructive comments from different people and organizations of
the entire Kwun Tong community. This was in line with our
'full community participation' approach.
The research team of the University of Hong Kong considers the
views collected quite comprehensive in nature. Residents are
generally aware of the urgency of the project, many in support of
comprehensive redevelopment of the town centre. The findings
indicate, inter alia, that the three architectural models have all
gained majority support in terms of the direction of urban design.
None of the proposals is deemed perfect, however. Indeed, all
could be improved on, as revealed from the survey findings.
For example, usage of public open space, pedestrian connectivity
with neighbouring areas, and air quality at the new public
transport interchange are issues warranting careful consideration
at the detailed planning stage in order for us to meet the
community's aspirations."
The URA spokesperson emphasized that publication of the
consultation report in no way signifies the conclusion of the
Authority's community engagement efforts. Indeed, the
Authority will continue in earnest to maintain dialogues with
residents, the Kwun Tong District Council and professional
institutes on various planning issues leading to implementation of
the project.
"We fully understand that the affected residents and the community
at large would like us to proceed with the project as soon as
possible. In this connection, we have already appointed an
architectural consultant to come up with a fourth and final
proposal. In so doing, he will have regard to the merits of
the three designs on display earlier and the public comments we
have received."
"We will work very hard to bring the project to fruition.
With the enthusiastic support of the community, our target is to
make a statutory submission to the Town Planning Board before the
end of March next year."
(ENDS)