XN000022-1995-05-03 — Page 80

A

(b)

(c)

(ii)

(iii)

(iv)

62

studying container-related operations in the Ha Tsuen/Lau Fau Shan area;

exploring the drawing up of a code of practice for container depot operations in liaison with the Hong Kong Container Depots and Repair Association Ltd to encourage self-discipline and improvements; and

examining suitable sites for relocating port back-up and open storage uses.

Black spots, in general, constitute any operations/activities which cause visual, traffic, flooding, dust and odour nuisances/problems. Many open storage and port back-up uses in the rural areas of the New Territories are found to be black spots. According to the recently completed Study on Port Back-up Land and Open Storage Requirements by the Planning Department, there were, as at August 1993, 1453 sites (covering 362 hectares) for open storage uses and 237 sites (covering 198 hectares) for port back-up uses. The Task Force is ascertaining exactly how many of these are black spots.

There are three courses of action to tackle black spots seeking to discontinue the operation/activity, moving it to places where the land use is compatible with the planning, environmental and traffic requirements, and allowing it to continue subject to the necessary improvements.

In view of the widespread nature and complexity of the problem, a 10- year implementation programme is thought to be necessary to clean up the New Territories. Over the next few years, the Task Force will be developing strategies and initiatives to bring about improvements. This will be no easy task. The co-operation and involvement of those living and working in the New Territories will be essential. If necessary, we may consider legislative amendments to deal with problematic areas which cannot be effectively dealt with through the means now at our disposal. We intend to consult widely as we develop our plans of action. Proposals will in due course be made for consideration by the Special Committee set up in November 1994 to advise the Government on all matters relating to environmental black spots in the New Territories and to monitor the work of the Task Force.

End/Wednesday, May 3, 1995

Page 80Page 81