What is the role of sub-regional development strategies in Hong Kong town planning?
These strategies serve as a bridge between the TDS and district plans. They translate the territorial goals into more specific planning objectives for the five sub-regions of Hong Kong, namely the Metro Area, North-East New Territories (NENT), North-West New Territories (NWNT), South-East New Territories (SENT) and South-West New Territories (SWNT). Extensive public consultation has been carried out to collect views on these strategies in view of their significant implications for the long-term planning framework for the respective sub-regions.
The Metroplan Review Study is intended to produce an updated planning framework for the development and redevelopment of the Metro Area for 2016 and beyond. The study includes a review of the 1993 Kowloon Density Study. Another planning study being undertaken in parallel is to develop a planning framework for guiding future developments around Victoria Harbour.
The integrated planning and development studies on NENT and NWNT have identified Kwu Tung North, Fanling North and Hung Shui Kiu as the new development areas. Detailed planning for these areas and impact assessments are in progress.
The SWNT Recommended Development Strategy, completed in 2001, aims at maintaining a balance between conservation and development in the sub-region in accordance with the principle of sustainable development, with particular emphasis on turning the sub-region into a tourist, recreation and leisure center. As a follow-up to the strategy, an integrated planning and engineering feasibility study for Mui Wo and South Lantau is being carried out to formulate land use and tourism/recreation proposals for the area.
The SENT Development Strategy Review was also completed in 2001. It provides an updated broad planning framework for the long-term development of SENT with a view to enhancing the sub-region as the 'Leisure Garden of Hong Kong' by promoting conservation, enhancing visitor attractions and achieving a sustainable level of development.
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