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24th November, 1922, proposed a scheme for the construction of new
piers in Hung Hom Bay on the east side of the Kowloon Peninsula.
Having regard to the occupation of the land in this area, the
scheme had no doubt much to recommend it. I consider, however,
that before anything is done on the east side, the capacity of
the west side of the Peninsula should first be exhausted. The
east side is exposed to the prevailing winds and typhoons, while
the west is more protected. The piers and facilities of the Hong
Kong & Kowloon Wharf & Godown Company are on the west side and
their site may be described as the best in the Harbour for the
large ocean-going vessels. To the northward of their premises
there is room for about three more piers, but the site is occupied by the Royal Naval Depôt. That Depôt is somewhat
cramped and seeing that it is not absolutely essential that it
should be at that spot, arrangements should be negotiated for
its removal to another site. There does not seem to be any
reason why it should stand in the way of the development for
commercial purposes of the really best site in the Port for those
purposes. I understand that some negotiations have already taken
place between the Hong Kong & Kowloon Wharf & Godown Company and
the Admiralty; these will no doubt be encouraged.
(93) If this removal were effected and the need arose later
for more piers for shipping, doubtless the Godown Company, if they
still displayed their customary enterprise, would be prepared to
construct them, the necessary lease being granted to them.
In designing future piers, consideration should be
given to the question of providing, on the piers themselves,
transit sheds, passenger accommodation and railway sidings. The
railway connections would necessitate taking over the Military
lands to the south of Austin Road. The removal of the Military
from their present position in the midst of a built-up area,
would appear in any case to be overdue.
On the matter of passenger accommodation, I am informed that the Godown Company have a scheme for providing improved