222 | Infrastructure Development and Heritage Conservation
The Development Bureau is also responsible for enhancing the Government's heritage conservation work and striking a balance between development and conservation. The Government's heritage conservation policy and initiatives, drawn up in response to public aspirations, aim to facilitate active public involvement in protecting Hong Kong's heritage.
The Development Opportunities Office (DOO) was established on July 1, 2009 for an initial period of three years to provide one-stop advisory and co-ordinating services to project proponents in the private sector and non-governmental organisations. The DOO does not approve land development projects, but facilitates the implementation of those that have broader social values or that strengthen Hong Kong's economic competitiveness.
The Land and Development Advisory Committee advises the Government on major policies and procedures on land development matters. Its terms of reference and membership were broadened after it was re-organised in July 2009, enabling it to advise the Government on the merits of individual project proposals handled by the DOO.
The DOO has also assisted in developing and co-ordinating implementation of the package of policy measures announced by the Chief Executive in his 2009 Policy Address which called for the redevelopment and wholesale conversion of Hong Kong's old industrial buildings. The package of new measures came into operation on April 1, 2010 and will be effective for three years.
Planning for Hong Kong
Strategic town planning provides an important framework for Hong Kong's future development. The 'Hong Kong 2030: Planning Vision and Strategy' provides a framework for planning the city's long-term development. It focuses on providing Hong Kong with a quality living environment, enhancing its economic competitiveness and strengthening its links with the Mainland to help it become Asia's world city.
Harbourfront Enhancement
Hong Kong's image as a vibrant and colourful city owes much to its attractive Victoria Harbourfront which the Government is committed to protecting and beautifying. In July 2010, a new Harbourfront Commission was established as a non- statutory body to advise the Government on harbourfront planning, design, management and other related matters to foster and facilitate the harbourfront's development. The Government is drawing up plans for developing the different key sites along the harbourfront to increase its vibrancy and to complement the Tamar Development Project due to be completed in 2011. Work has started on building an advance promenade to link Central Pier No. 10 with the northern part of the Tamar project for the public's early enjoyment.