ENG-2008 — Page 274

218 ❘ Infrastructure Development and Heritage Conservation

Liantang/Heung Yuen Wai Boundary Control Point

The Government and the Shenzhen Municipal People's Government have long recognised the need to enhance cross-boundary transport infrastructures for long- term economic growth and further regional co-operation. A joint study to examine the need, function and benefits of a new boundary control point (BCP) at Liantang/ Heung Yuen Wai was completed in mid-2008. As the new control point would bring strategic and economic development to both cities and meet future cross-boundary travel demand, both Governments jointly announced the implementation of the BCP in September 2008. The Government will take forward the investigation and preliminary design of the BCP in close liaison with the Shenzhen side and a target to commence operation of the new BCP in 2018.

Development of the Lok Ma Chau Loop

The development of the Lok Ma Chau Loop (the Loop) is among the ten large- scale infrastructure projects for economic growth in the Chief Executive's 2007-08 Policy Address. The planning authorities of Hong Kong and Shenzhen consuited the public on the future land use of the Loop in 2008. With a view to studying and developing the area on a joint basis, both sides agreed that among the three land uses which have gained wider public support in the public engagement exercise, higher education may be developed as the leading use in the Loop, incorporating hi-tech research and development facilities and creative industries. This would provide impetus for human resources development in South China and help enhance the competitiveness of the Pearl River Delta, as well as benefit the long-term economic development of the two cities. Both sides signed a co-operation agreement in November 2008 to commission consultants in mid-2009 to undertake a comprehensive planning and engineering study.

Kai Tak Development

The Kai Tak Development is also one of the large-scale infrastructure projects pledged in the 2007-08 Policy Address. Covering a total area of about 328 hectares at the former airport site and adjoining land, the development is entering the implementation stage. Site preparation works started in April 2008. The vision of the new development is to create a distinguished, vibrant, attractive, and people- oriented 'Kai Tak by the harbour'. Apart from a new cruise terminal, key developments include a multi-purpose stadium complex, government offices, a 24-hectare metro park, and residential and commercial developments.

Central Reclamation Phase III and Wan Chai Development Phase II

The Central and Wan Chai Reclamation extends along the Victoria Harbour waterfront from Sheung Wan to the east of the Causeway Bay Typhoon Shelter. The Central Reclamation Phase III is for the reclamation of about 18 hectares of land and provision of essential infrastructure. The main objective of Wan Chai Development Phase II is to provide land for the Central-Wan Chai Bypass and the Island Eastern Corridor Link. These final reclamations on the northern shore of Hong Kong Island will also provide the opportunity to create a vibrant and accessible harbourfront for the enjoyment of the public.