ENG-2003 — Page 370

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TRAVEL AND TOURISM

class cruise terminal capable of meeting the needs of the new generation of large cruise ships. The Government is also assisting Ocean Park in its long-term strategic review, which will help shape future development at the Aberdeen Harbour tourism node surrounding the park;

• A Symphony of Lights this world-class multimedia light and sound show, combining interactive light and musical effects to tell the story of Hong Kong through showcasing the major buildings along the waterfront of Victoria Harbour, was given a successful preview on December 20 prior to its official commencement on January 17, 2004. It will become a permanent tourism attraction, and be enhanced over the years as more buildings are included in the show;

• A consultancy study on the development of tourism in the northern New Territories was completed in December 2002. Based on the study report, which focused on opportunities to develop for green and heritage tourism in the area, the Government conducted a consultative forum with local representatives and relevant stakeholders. An inter-departmental committee has been formed to consider the feedback and take forward the recommendations as appropriate.

Tourism Friendliness

Visitor Signage and Tourist District Enhancement Improvements

The visitor signage improvement programme, which was introduced in Central and Stanley in 2001, is being extended to other districts in phases, beginning with Wong Tai Sin, Sha Tin and Sai Kung in early 2002. The programme, covering all 18 districts, will be completed in 2004. In the urban area, signs are intended to be eye-catching while in rural districts signage will blend in harmoniously with the natural environment.

The district-based enhancement projects at the Sai Kung Waterfront and Lei Yue Mun were completed in 2003, while those in the Central and Western District will be completed in 2004. Enhancement works include repaving of streets, redesigning street- lighting and erecting directional and information signage. Improvement works for the Stanley Waterfront and the Peak will be carried out in 2004 and 2005, respectively. The scope of the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade Beautification Project was expanded to cover the site to be vacated by the relocation of the existing Public Transport Interchange outside the Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier. The promenade, stretching from the Cultural Centre Piazza to Tsim Sha Tsui East, will be enhanced with better access, new landscaping and improved lighting and open space. When completed in phases from 2005 to 2009, it will offer a much better place for residents and visitors to enjoy Victoria Harbour. As an advance part of the project, work on the 'Avenue of Stars' project started in June and will be completed in the second quarter of 2004.

Service Quality

To promote high standards of service in shops and restaurants, the HKTB launched the Quality Tourism Services (QTS) Scheme in 1999. It has been widely supported by the tourism industry and has helped to upgrade professionalism and service standards offered to visitors. At year-end, more than 1 100 businesses representing 3 557 outlets had received QTS accreditation.

In December, the QTS Scheme was enhanced to further strengthen Hong Kong's reputation for quality services. The new criteria tighten the entry requirements for