ENG-1979 — Page 145

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HOUSING AND LAND

In June, the government introduced legislation to restrict temporarily the approval of building projects in specified areas of the Mid-Levels on Hong Kong Island. This followed a recommendation by the Geotechnical Control Office of the Public Works Department which had been examining the problems caused by cut, artificial and natural slopes in the Mid-Levels area. Under the legislation, the Building Authority, until December 31, 1981, is required to refuse to approve plans or grant consent for any building project involving site formation, foundation, excavation or similar work within this area, unless otherwise directed by the Governor.

One of the responsibilities of the Building Authority is the control of unauthorised structures on buildings. During 1979, 2,788 buildings were kept under surveillance and a total of 1,987 notices requiring corrective works were served. The more prevalent offences were interference with means of escape arrangements, unlawful construction of balconies, and the erection of unlawful structures on rooftops. A new procedure was established during the year to provide better 'on site compliance with notices; however, the required level of activity in control and enforcement was restricted because of lack of adequate staff. The Buildings Ordinance Office's Dangerous Buildings and Works Divisions are con- cerned with seeking out and dealing with potentially dangerous private buildings and ensuring that remedial works or demolition are carried out in default of owners or in an emergency. Their responsibilities include the removal of unauthorised structures, building alterations, emergency demolition or repair works, dealing with defective drainage, and securing the removal of dangerous advertising signs.

The Mass Transit Division of the Buildings Ordinance Office administers the Buildings Ordinance in respect of property development by the Mass Transit Railway Corporation, examines its proposals, and monitors construction operations including dewatering, tun- nelling, ground treatment, diaphragm walling, ground anchors and blasting in order to safeguard nearby buildings.

Management of Buildings in Multiple Ownership

During 1979, 183 new owners' corporations were formed under the Multi-storey Buildings (Owners' Incorporation) Ordinance. This legislation, passed in 1970, enables owners of a building in multiple ownership to incorporate themselves and appoint a com- mittee for the better management of their building, particularly to ensure its maintenance and to uphold environmental standards. By the end of 1979, the total number of corpora- tions was 1,422.

The city district offices and the New Territories' district offices offer assistance and advice to owners and tenants, either on incorporation or on the formation of mutual aid committees. Mutual aid committees have similar aims to owners' corporations, but they are not statutory incorporated bodies or legal entities in themselves. Membership is open to all residents of a particular building. By the end of 1979, 3,890 mutual aid committees were registered.

Rent Control of Pre-war Premises

Legislation controlling rents of pre-war premises and providing security of tenure was instituted by proclamation immediately after World War II and was later embodied in 1947 in the Landlord and Tenant Ordinance since re-enacted as Part I of the Landlord and Tenant (Consolidation) Ordinance. This legislation applies to both domestic and business premises and restricts rents by reference to pre-war levels (standard rent), while excluding from control any new or substantially reconstructed buildings.