TNAG-0978-FCO40-1197-Legislation-for-preservation-of-ancient-buildings-and-monume-1981 — Page 38

G.S. 84

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XCR(80) 48

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Further research and documentation are clearly necessary but it is already apparent that the fort is an important feature in local history in an area which contains other important historical items including the ancient temple (Joss House Bay), the Sung-period rock inscription, the rock carvings on Tung Lung Island and the remains of the Sung Customs Station on Junk Island.

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The fort is entirely on Crown land and there are no conflicting interests involved. On 22nd June 1979, the headland on which the fort stands was gazetted a Special Area under section 24(1) of the Country Parks Ordinance (Chapter 208).

Financial and Staff Implications

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The Country Parks Authority has made $15,000 available towards the restoration of the fort. Subsequent maintenance is likely to be minimal and would be met from Head 88 Urban Services Department Subhead 352 Public Amenities, Parks and Playgrounds, subject to availability of funds. The Country Parks Authority will also send staff regularly to visit the fort and inspect its state and will report on these visits to the Antiquities and Monuments Section of the Urban Services Department. No additional staff will be required for this purpose.

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The declaration of Tung Lung Fort as a monument is likely to attract favourable public reaction. If this recommendation is approved, a press statement will be issued.

Advice Sought

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Members will be asked to advise whether the Tung Lung Fort should be declared a monument under section 3(1) of the Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance (Chapter 53) by reason of its historical significance.

(The Director of Urban Services (Mr B.D. WILSON) and the Deputy Secretary for the New Territories (Mr A.K. CHUI) will attend before the Council for the discussion of this item).

6th February 1980 (ENV 70/08/79)

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COUNCIL CHAMBER