ENG-2018 — Page 255

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Planning, Land and Infrastructure

design and planting practices in the upstream, and proper tree maintenance in the downstream, with public safety as a paramount consideration.

In December, the section released the Street Tree Selection Guide based on the principle of 'right tree, right place' and with a view to encouraging vegetation diversity. The guide features 80 tree species, half of which are native to Hong Kong, that are less commonly used and are suitable for different roadside environments. The guide is meant for use by government departments and for reference by the industry and public.

The section, together with departments that also look after trees, manages trees in areas with high traffic and pedestrian flow according to the Guidelines for Tree Risk Assessment and Management Arrangement to protect public safety, promotes the Handbook on Tree Management to private property owners, helps the Arboriculture and Horticulture Industry Training Advisory Committee develop a qualifications framework, and raises awareness of proper tree management through community engagement.

Infrastructure

Construction 2.0

The Hong Kong construction industry has been facing the challenges of high construction costs and an ageing construction workforce, in addition to rising public aspirations for better performance of public works projects, in recent years. To cope with these challenges, the government is promoting Construction 2.0 - Time to Change to reform and upgrade the construction industry. Under the three pillars of innovation, professionalisation and revitalisation, the government aims to uplift the capacity and sustainability of the industry, increase productivity, enhance regulation and quality assurance, improve site safety and reduce environmental impact. It has selected a number of public works projects to pilot the new initiatives under Construction 2.0.

Infrastructure Investment

The government builds new infrastructure and improves existing facilities to meet economic development needs and enhance the living environment. Capital works expenditure was about $84 billion in 2017-18. The annual expenditure is expected to stay at a high level for the next few years.

Project Cost Management

The bureau signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Infrastructure and Projects. Authority of the United Kingdom in 2018 to enhance collaboration in exchanging expertise and experience between Hong Kong and the UK in managing the costs of infrastructure projects.

The Project Cost Management Office devises and implements initiatives to enhance project delivery capability, so as to improve the performance of public works projects. In recent years, it has been promoting the use of innovative construction methods and advanced technologies, such as building information modelling and modular integrated construction.

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