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THE AIRPORT PROGRAM
CONSTRUCTION Work on the Airport Core Programme (ACP) saw good progress in 1993. By the end of the year, 39 contracts worth a total of over $46 billion had been placed, within budget estimates, by the government, the Provisional Airport Authority (PAA) and the franchisee for the Western Harbour Crossing (WHC).
Over one-third of the 1 248-hectare site for the new international airport, at Chek Lap Kok off North Lantau, had been formed by December.
Major developments during the year included the start of physical work on the West Kowloon Expressway in August, and on the WHC- Hong Kong's third cross-harbour tunnel and Phase I of the Central reclamation in September.
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Hong Kong's externally-oriented economy depends greatly on modern, efficient and expanding air transport for its continued growth. Efficient road and rail transport facilities are also essential, along with land for development.
The ACP is designed to provide these facilities in 10 interlinked projects, which will build a base for economic expansion well into the next century. Hong Kong's key role as a centre for international and regional aviation will be enhanced by the new modern airport located away from centres of urban population and capable of operating round-the-clock. Associated infrastructure developments will relieve traffic congestion, and open up new land for urban development and the further expansion of port facilities. The new land will also provide space for recreational activities and have substantial overall environmental benefits.
The 10 projects in the ACP comprise the new airport, which will replace the existing one at Kai Tak; six road and rail projects, including extensive tunnels and bridges, stretching from Central District under the harbour, along the west shore of Kowloon peninsula, across the islands of Tsing Yi and Ma Wan, and along the North Lantau coast; two major land reclamations in West Kowloon and Central District (in addition to the land reclaimed for the airport); and a new town at Tung Chung on North Lantau.
Overall, the programme is based on sound financial principles, with good returns for government investments and extensive involvement of the private sector. Cost-effective concepts and designs have been drawn up for individual projects. Contracts are placed on the basis of open and fair tender evaluations, and there are strong and comprehensive financial and project management controls. Comprehensive consultative arrangements and community and public relations programmes have been developed.
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