ENG-2001 — Page 265

HOUSING

The numbers of squatters and squatter structures have been reduced in recent years as a result of rehousing and clearance programmes. There are now about 14 400 squatters in the urban area and about 204 500 squatters in the New Territories. Squatter control is maintained by regular patrols and hut-to-hut checks. About 1 500 illegal structures and extensions were demolished during the year.

Rooftop Structures

The Buildings Department is implementing a seven-year enforcement programme to clear 12 000 illegal rooftop structures on 4 500 single-staircase buildings, starting from 2001-02. Rooftop dwellers are encouraged to register on the Waiting List for public rental housing. No person affected by the demolition of rooftop structures will be left homeless. Everyone will be rehoused in public rental housing or interim housing according to eligibility.

Interim Housing

Interim housing provides accommodation to people who are rendered homeless for one reason or another, but are not eligible for permanent public housing. There are three types of interim housing: multi-storey vertical interim housing converted from redeveloped blocks in some older estates, prefabricated interim housing blocks, and a new form of multi-storey vertical interim housing in Tuen Mun. These high-rise blocks meet the continuing, long-term need for such accommodation.

Transit centres provide free emergency shelter for the homeless, including victims of fire and natural disasters, pending assessment of their eligibility for rehousing to permanent or interim housing. The Housing Department manages three transit centres with a total capacity of 864 places.

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