Author: Mike Rowse

Former Hong Kong chief secretary David Akers-Jones once said, “Don’t let the best be the enemy of the good,” emphasizing the importance of taking action promptly for the benefit of the people. In a similar vein, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu has launched a task force to address issues in subdivided housing, aiming to set minimum standards for living conditions. The task force, led by Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong Wai-lun, is working towards improving the situation in these cramped living spaces, proposing guidelines such as a minimum unit size of 100 sq ft, better hygiene standards, and fire safety…

Lawmakers are generally supportive but have bemoaned the slow progress over the decades. Various concept plans and public consultations have been conducted since 2004, with the most recent one in 2016. However, there is no specific implementation timetable yet. Proposals for developing South Lantau date back several decades, with discussions starting as early as 40 years ago. With improved access via the airport, new town development, and transportation infrastructure, there is a growing potential for development in the area. Efforts are being made to strike a balance between development and environmental sustainability, as seen in the development of viewing platforms…