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"The TFB will spearhead an important programme of the 'existing use' undertakings through negotiation with the operators for in situ improvement works," he added.
A second action area at Ping Che and Ko Po has been identified and a preliminary survey indicates some 210 industrial undertakings.
"Most of these undertakings are situated on private land. Unlawful occupation of government land is not too serious.
"A detailed survey of all industrial undertakings will be further conducted with a view to sorting out the actionable cases.
"Based on experience gained in the Pat Heung Pilot Action Area, lease enforcement or regularisation subject to in-situ improvements will be instituted upon completion of the detailed survey at the end of 1995," Mr Hay said.
Mr Hay added that the investigation work in Ha Tsuen and Lau Fau Shan Container Study Area had been completed.
"The Task Force is now correlating these findings in relation to the nature of trade, tenure information, ownership pattern, zoning, holding capacity and planning status of these undertakings and are actively searching for alternative sites suitable for relocation of container-related and other open storage operations," he said.
The Task Force reports to a Special Committee which advises the Government on all matters relating to the environmental black spots and oversee the Task Force's work.
It was set up with a commitment to clean up the New Territories, where there has been a proliferation of conversion of agricultural land into open storage yards and other similar unauthorised uses in the rural areas.
End/Sunday, May 14, 1995