Press Statement by the newly appointed Chairmen of the URA Board, Mr Barry Cheung

The following is a statement issued today (Tueday) on behalf of the newly appointed Chairman of the URA Board, Mr Barry Cheung:

"I am deeply honoured to be appointed Chairman of the Board of the Urban Renewal Authority (URA) by the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

URA has just completed its first Five Year Corporate Plan.  Following the commencement of the Kwun Tong Town Centre Redevelopment Project, the largest single project it has ever undertaken, URA is proudly progressing towards another major milestone of its work.

I wish to thank the current Chairman, Mr. Edward Cheng, under whose distinguished leadership the URA has made remarkable achievements under its "4R" strategy: redevelopment, rehabilitation, revitalization and preservation.

As we are entrusted with the huge responsibility of addressing the problem of urban deterioration in Hong Kong, and with increased public expectations in practically every area of our work, there will be many challenges ahead of us.

Our priority will continue to be on improving the living conditions of our citizens living in very run-down areas of Hong Kong.  We will continue to operate in an efficient and cost-effective manner.  At the same time, we will continue to maintain a high degree of transparency, and adopt a "people-oriented approach" to meet the community's aspirations.  I trust that my experience in business and community service including membership of both the Land Development Corporation and the URA itself will enable me to facilitate the work of the URA.

I look forward to a strong partnership with all members of the URA Board and its committees, management and staff, the Government and indeed all of our stakeholders in meeting the challenges ahead."


(ENDS)