XN000022-1994-12-01 — Page 14

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Civil works contract for explosives complex at Kau Shat Wan

A $214-million contract for civil works in connection with the construction of an explosives complex at Kau Shat Wan, Lantau Island, was awarded today (Thursday) to Leighton-Hochtief Joint Venture, which was formed by local and German firms.

The explosives complex will replace the existing explosives facilities on Stonecutters Island. Most of the explosives will be stored in underground rock caverns. Access to the complex will be by sea only and no vehicluar access will be provided.

To achieve the target commissioning date of June 1997, construction of the complex was divided into two contracts: the civil works contract which has just been awarded and the building, mechanical and electrical works contract. Tenders for the latter are expected to be invited in late 1995.

The civil works contract comprises reclamation and underground work. A 340- metre seawall will be constructed together with six hectares of reclamation to provide the operational area of the new explosives complex. A series of underground rock caverns will be constructed within the hillside, linked by tunnels to provide the main storage space for explosives.

The building and mechanical and electrical works contract includes the construction of above- ground buildings and magazines, provision of mechanical and electrical facilities and security systems, and construction of roads and landscaping works. Works on this contract are expected to start in early 1996 and the entire project will be completed by mid-1997.

The design of the new complex had been undertaken by TBV Consult Limited, who will also oversee its construction. Works will start early this month and take 19 months to finish.

The civil works contract was signed by Dr Choi Yu-Leuk, Principal Government Civil Engineer, Civil Engineering Department, and Mr John Nash of Leighton Contractor and Mr Erwin Behr of the German firm, Hochtief A.G, for the joint venture company.

end/Thursday, December 1, 1994