XN000022-1995-12-13 — Page 33

17 -

Standards of roads in the New Territories

*

Following is a question by the Ion Choy Kan-pui and a written reply by the Secretary for Transport. Mr Haider Barma, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

At present, there are still a number of roads in the New Territories which were constructed by the Government many years ago and which have all the time been managed by the Government. These roads, which include Fan Kam Road, the Yuen Long Section of Lam Kam Road and Kam Tin Road, can no longer meet the current standards for highways nor can they cater for the needs of the rapid developments in the New Territories. In-view of this, will the Government inform this Council :

(a) of the total number of such roads in the New Territories at present, together with their names and locations; and

(b) whether the Government has formulated a timetable for the reconstruction of these roads to meet the current road standards so as to ensure the safety of road users; if so, what are the respective dates for the commencement and completion of the reconstruction work; if not, why not?

Reply:

Mr President.

The road network in the New Territories has developed over the past 50 years. At the time individual roads were constructed they all fully met the then prevailing standards. Higher standards have evolved over the years resulting in better and more modern roads. However, this does not mean that the other roads are either unsafe or of an unacceptable standard.

It is fully recognised that with the pace of development in the New Territories. some existing roads may not be able to cope with increased levels of traffic. These roads need to be improved. The Lam Kam Road (Yuen Long Section) and Kam Tin Road fall into this category.