ENG-2005 — Page 364

314 Travel and Tourism

40 years, the theme park is expected to bring in net economic benefits worth $148 billion. Exciting attractions popular among visitors within the region will be added to ensure that the park will continue to attract new and repeat visitors.

Beyond Disneyland, the Government is committed to building on Hong Kong's appeal as a tourist destination through the development of major new tourist attractions and the enhancement of existing facilities:

• The 'Wisdom Path', a large outdoor carving of a Chinese calligraphy masterpiece by the renowned scholar Professor Jao Tsung I features the Prajna Paramita Hrdaya Sutra. The sutra, carved on 38 wooden logs, is at the foot of Lantau Peak, near Ngong Ping. The project was completed in May 2005;

• A Symphony of Lights, first launched in January 2004, has been very well received by both visitors and locals. It was named the world's 'Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show' by Guinness World Records in November 2005, accredited on the basis of the 20 buildings on Hong Kong Island jointly performing in a fully synchronised light and sound show every night. The show was extended to Kowloon in December covering 33 buildings on both sides of Victoria Harbour;

Ngong Ping 360, comprising Ngong Ping Skyrail and Ngong Ping Village, is expected to open in mid 2006. Visitors will go on a journey of enlightenment' a 20-minute trip on the Ngong Ping Skyrail with its spectacular panoramic view of the South China Sea and the natural scenery of Lantau plus a visit to Ngong Ping Village where they can sample the traditional and cultural delights of the Ngong Ping area. The project complements the Po Lin Monastery and the Big Buddha which are already popular among locals and tourists;

• The Hong Kong Wetland Park at Tin Shui Wai is also expected to open in mid 2006. The park will be Hong Kong's first major ecotourism facility and is expected to attract over 500 000 nature lovers a year;

• Following a government-commissioned study which confirmed the need for additional cruise terminal facilities, the Government invited Expressions of Interest from the market in late 2005. Six suggestions were received and an inter-departmental working group will examine them;

• The Government is also working with Ocean Park to implement its redevelopment plans which aim to turn the 28-year-old park into a world-class marine-themed attraction. Construction work will be carried out in phases with Phase 1 targeted for completion in 2008 and Phase 2 in 2010. The funding arrangement has been approved by the Finance Committee of the Legislative Council;

• Construction of the heritage tourism development at the former Marine Police Headquarters compound in Tsim Sha Tsui started in March 2004. This project will preserve, restore and convert the compound's historic buildings into a development designed to encourage local residents and visitors alike to