TNAG-0637-FCO40-785-Supplies-of-electricity-for-Hong-Kong-1977 — Page 65

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LANTAU FIXED CROSSING STUDY

To

From

:

Government Civil Engineer

Wilbur Smith and Associates

Subject: Summary of Preliminary Findings

We have pleasure in setting out below a summary of our preliminary findings of the above study.

Introduction

In June, 1973, the Public Works Department commissioned Wilbur Smith and Associates to undertake a preliminary feasibility study of a fixed crossing to Lantau from the Mainland. This has been done, and a final report is nearing completion. The findings of the study confirm the engineering practicability of building a crossing, and the analysis of benefits versus costs is favourable.

Land Use Implications

The study treats Lantau Island as a fifty-six square mile land bank held in trust and undeveloped, awaiting the time of need, and a connection to the remainder of Hong Kong. It recognizes that a decision to build a crossing to Lantau is essentially a land-use decision, and that comprehensive planning for development is a necessary corollary to scheduling the construction of a crossing.

That there have been in the past positive views accentuating the recreational virtues of the island, and indeed suggesting this as the highest and best use, is taken into account in the study. The findings emphasize that the sheer size of Lantau, and its natural division by hills and mountains, provides room for balanced deve- lopment without sacrificing its invaluable recreational assets.

/The presence

G. F. 323

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