Study
Framework, Work Programme
and Notification of Public Consultation
In 1991, ExCo approved the Metroplan Selected Strategy which provided a planning and development framework for the restructuring of the Metro Area (including Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, Tsuen Wan and Kwai Tsing) up to 2011. Subsequently in 1993, the Kowloon Density Study (KDS) was also completed, which provided a basis for the imposition of development density restrictions by statutory Outline Zoning Plans in various parts of the Kowloon area.
In 1996, Planning Department commenced the Stage I Study on Review of Metroplan to examine the change of conditions and identify key problems and issues of the Metro Area since completion of the 1991 Metroplan. The Stage I Study was completed in 1998.
The subject study was then
commissioned in March this year to comprehensively review
the 1991 Metroplan taking into account findings of the
Stage I Study so as to produce an updated development
strategy for the Metro Area up to 2016 and beyond. It
also includes the carrying out of the KDS Review to
review the existing density controls in Kowloon area.
The study would be undertaken in four integrated stages, namely Basic
Studies, Constraints and Opportunities, Strategy Generation and Recommendations.
The first stage would set out the study
objectives, scope, approach and methodology. It would
start off with a critical review of the Metroplan
including the KDS in a strategic planning context and the
existing local situation (including population and
employment). Key issues (e.g. infrastructure capacities)
in the Metro Area will be identified. The objectives and
criteria for evaluating the future development options
will also be defined.
Stage 2: Constraints and Opportunities
The second stage would
include a review of the performance of the previous KDS
controls. The impact of projected development and
redevelopment will be assessed with detailed
infrastructural capacity assessments and environmental
appraisal. The overall development constraints and
opportunities of the Metro Area will be identified and
analysed. The process would then identify and recommend
the possible future density controls and changes of use
as a result of the assessments.
The third stage would
integrate findings of different studies and assess the
land requirements to meet various types of development
needs (such as housing, industrial, commercial,
government, institution and community uses etc.) in the
short, medium and long terms. Different development
options will be generated for the Metro Area.
The final stage of the
study would be options evaluation aiming at the selection
of a recommended strategy for the Metro Area, which will
offer the optimal balance of all relevant considerations.
The evaluation process will also confirm the final
recommendation on density controls for the Kowloon area.
The study period is scheduled for completion in
October 2000.
Programme
To ensure public's involvement in the study process, there would be a three-stage consultation where views of public and major stakeholders will be solicited. The scheduled public consultation programme is as follows:
1st Public Consultation on Study Objectives, Approach and Key Issues - July 1999
2nd Public Consultation on Constraints and Opportunities and Development Options - Late 2000
3rd Public Consultation on Recommended Strategy - Mid 2001
I. Public Forum
It is intended to hold public forums which can provide an opportunity for the general public including stakeholders to express views and comments at each stage of the public consultation. Guest speakers will be invited to express their ideas on study approach, objectives, scope, major key issues, development options and recommended strategy. We believe this is a practical and effective approach to enhance public awareness of the study. The first public forum was held in 17 July 1999.
II. Briefing Session
Formal briefings will also be made to Provisional District Boards, Municipal Councils, Town Planning Board and other relevant public bodies during each stage of the public consultation to solicit their views.
III. Website
Information materials of each stage of the public consultation will be put on the website of Planning Department during the course of the study. Public will be invited to send in their comments in electronic mail or other forms. A summary of responses to comments will be put on the website afterwards for information of the general public.
IV. Mass Media
The general public will be informed of the study objectives, scope, approach, major key issues, development options and recommended strategy through press briefings and other forms of the mass media.
V. Consultation Materials
Your ViewsTo facilitate the consultation and better discussion, consultation materials will be prepared and distributed to the public at public forums and uploaded in Planning Department's website.
Any views on this Study are welcome.
Address
:
Sub-Regional Planning
Section
Planning Department
North Point Government
Offices
333 Java Road
North Point, Hong Kong
Telephone
no. :
2231 4612 or 2231 4619
Fax
no. :
2522 8524
E-mail
address :
srpd@pland.gov.hk
[ Study Main Page ]