ENG-2014 — Page 233

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Planning, Land and Infrastructure

The joint planning study on 'Action Plan for the Bay Area of the Pearl River Estuary' commissioned by the Hong Kong, Macao and Guangdong governments to establish a platform to facilitate exchange of information and to promote sustainable development of the area was completed in 2014.

Lantau Planning and Development

Taking account of major infrastructure projects in the area, particularly the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, and the synergy between Hong Kong and the Pearl River Deltal while striking a balance between development and conservation, the Lantau Development Advisory Committee was set up in January 2014 to advise the government on the planning, conservation, economic and social development strategy for Lantau. In July, the committee formulated broad development directions mainly for housing and economic developments in north and northeast Lantau and for developing sustainable recreation and tourism in the predominant part of Lantau which has high conservation value.

Harbourfront Enhancement

The government is committed to protecting and beautifying Victoria Harbour and enhancing the harbourfront. Kai Tak Runway Park Phase 1 was opened, and the works for Kwun Tong Promenade Stage 2 and Tai Kok Tsui Advance Promenade were completed in 2014. Sites at the new Central harbourfront for an observation wheel and ancillary entertainment facilities, events, open space and a pet garden were put to interim use in 2014 for public enjoyment and to enhance the harbourfront's vibrancy. In September, the Harbourfront Commission and the Development Bureau jointly launched a three-month Phase II Public Engagement Exercise to gauge the public's views on detailed proposals for the establishment of a Harbourfront Authority.

Energising Kowloon East

The Development Bureau's Energising Kowloon East Office (EKEO) continues to steer and monitor the transformation of Kowloon East, comprising the former industrial areas of Kwun Tong and Kowloon Bay, and the new Kai Tak development, into another core business district a place where people would like to work, do business, walk, stay and play.

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Ongoing work includes enhancing connectivity, improving the environment, releasing development potential and facilitating private and public sector projects. The face-lift of Tsun Yip Street Playground sitting out area was completed this year. The EKEO will take account of ideas put forward by entrants to the 'Kai Tak Fantasy'- International Ideas Competition on Urban Planning and Design in its plans for developing this recreational site for public enjoyment. The EKEO maintains close liaison with the local community and the general public, and since its establishment in June 2012 there have been more than 300 briefings, seminars, workshops, forums, exhibitions and visits with more than 9,000 participants, and delegations from over 20 countries have visited EKEO to exchange experiences.

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