ENG-2009 — Page 274

214 Infrastructure Development and Heritage Conservation

conservation. The Government's heritage conservation policy and initiatives, drawn up in response to public aspirations, aim to facilitate active public involvement in protecting Hong Kong's heritage.

The Development Opportunities Office (DOO) was established on July 1, 2009 for an initial period of three years to provide one-stop advisory and co-ordinating services to project proponents in the private sector and non-governmental organisations. The DOO does not approve land development projects, but facilitates the implementation of those that have broader social values or that strengthen Hong Kong's economic competitiveness.

The Land and Development Advisory Committee advises the Government on major policies and procedures on land development matters. Its terms of reference and membership were broadened after it was re-organised in July 2009 enabling it to advise the Government on the merits of individual project proposals handled by the DOO.

The DOO has also assisted in developing and co-ordinating implementation of the package of policy measures announced by the Chief Executive in his 2009 Policy Address which called for the redevelopment and wholesale conversion of Hong Kong's old industrial buildings.

Planning for Hong Kong

Strategic town planning provides an important framework for Hong Kong's future development. In 2007, the Government completed the 'Hong Kong 2030: Planning Vision and Strategy' study which provides a planning framework for the city's long-term development. The recommended strategy focuses on providing Hong Kong with a quality living environment, enhancing its economic competitiveness and strengthening its links with the Mainland to help it become Asia's world city.

Harbourfront Enhancement

Hong Kong's image as a vibrant and colourful city owes much to its attractive Victoria Harbourfront which the Government is committed to protecting and beautifying. In April 2009, a dedicated team was formed within the Development Bureau to co-ordinate inter-departmental plans for enhancing the harbourfront.

During the year, the Government continued to work closely with the Harbour- front Enhancement Committee, an advisory committee comprising 28 members representing different organisations, including green groups, harbour concern bodies, professional institutes, the business sector as well as community leaders. The Government announced final proposals for eight key sites in the New Central Harbourfront after taking into account the views of the public and those of the committee. In particular, the proposals call for the development of two prime waterfront sites into a distinctive civic node with low-rise buildings and structures for different amenities for the public to enjoy. The sites will be developed under a public-private partnership arrangement. There will also be extensive public open space along the entire length of the waterfront for leisure, recreational and cultural

use.