If the first of the two 250 mw sets is to be commissioned in 1982, the site will have to be granted to HEC by September 1978 to enable the Company to undertake reclamation and site formation. However, the site has first to be gazetted under the Foreshores and Sea Bed Ordinance and a statutory two-month period allowed for objections. In view of the tight timetable, Site 'A' was gazetted on 19th May 1978.
Public Relations Aspects
16
Considerable public concern was expressed when proposals for an oil refinery on Lamma were aired, and it is likely that some opposition to a power station will be voiced, particularly as Government has so recently announced its intention regarding the CLP power station at Tap Shek Kok, Adverse comment will probably come mainly from the more informed sector of the public, and from conservation groups in particular, and they are likely to receive considerable coverage in the English language media. The general public, however, is more likely to accept that an adequate supply of electricity must be maintained. It will be necessary to explain clearly why a site on Lamma is being granted to HEC for a new power station, and suitable publicity will be arranged. The Secretary for the New Territories has advised that the villagers cannot be expected to accept the cons- truction of the power station without demur, but he is reasonably confident that no serious objections will arise.
17
The unofficial sub-committee chairman of the Advisory Committee un Environmental Pollution (EPCOM), dealing with Air, Water, Noise and Land Pollution, have been consulted and, on the understanding that a site must be found for a new power station and that a thorough environmental impact assessment would be carried out, have accepted that a site on Lamma Island would be the least objectionable of the three sites proposed by HEC.
18
It is planned that, prior to the start of work on site, the Company would prepare an Interim Environmental Impact Statement on the basis of guidelines provided by the Environmental Protection Unit of Environment Branch. This would include a full assessment of all aspects of environmental impact for which the relevant information is available. Where additional data is required the Interim Statement would set down the proposed programme of work and the dates for completion. The Interim Statement, covering
CONFIDENTIAL
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.