236 Land, Public Works and Utilities
works for aqua privies into flushing toilets in Phases 1 and 2A and the redevelopment of Diamond Hill Crematorium.
Boundary Crossing Facilities
Improvement works to the terminal building and a cross-boundary footbridge in Lo Wu were completed during the year. Installation of an air-conditioning system at the Lo Wu cross-boundary footbridge and expansion works of customs and immigration facilities at the Sha Tau Kok Control Point are under way.
Design and construction of the boundary crossing facilities at Hong Kong- Shenzhen Western Corridor are in progress under the management of the department in cooperation with the Shenzhen Hong Kong Western Corridor Project Office.
Initiatives in Sustainable Development
Promoting sustainable development in the building industry is one of the key aims of the department. To achieve this, innovation in architectural design is encouraged, environmentally friendly construction materials are widely adopted, and meticulous consideration is given to the surroundings, users' needs, durability and energy efficiency of buildings.
The department continues to lead and set an example in minimising energy consumption and promoting the use of renewable energy. Through the use of energy-efficient devices, an estimated annual saving of 420 million mega joules of energy was achieved and about 750 square metres of photovoltaic panels with a total electrical capacity of 55 kilowatts were installed in 2005. The geothermal heat pump used in the air-conditioning system at the visitor centre in Hong Kong Wetland Park is a prime example of the efficient use of energy since it disperses heat from the system into a vast area of wetland rather than the air. It also quieter than a conventional air-conditioning plant which suits the park environment.
The department's efforts to promote sustainability were recognised by the Hong Kong Institute of Architects. A number of building projects were winners in the institute's Annual Awards 2004 because they took thorough account of sustainability. They include Electrical and Mechanical Services Department's Headquarters Building, Margaret Trench Red Cross School and an open space in Fanling. A research project on universal accessibility was also awarded the institute's 2004 Special Award.
Land Administration
The Lands Administration Office of the Lands Department consists of the headquarters, 12 District Lands Offices and various specialist sections. Its main functions are land acquisition, land disposal, land management and lease enforcement.
Land Acquisition
When private land has to be acquired for public purposes, usually to implement public works projects, it may be acquired either by negotiation or by resumption
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