The construction industry is crucial to the promotion of Hong Kong’s social and economic development, and is therefore an indispensable partner of the Development Bureau (DEVB). As the Chief Executive said in the Policy Address, the construction industry has been facing the challenges of high construction costs and labour shortage in recent years. Hence, the Government is proactively promoting the adoption of technology and innovative construction methods to improve productivity and cost-effectiveness. This week, I would like to introduce an array of measures set out in the Policy Address to spur the development of the construction industry, so as to provide a better insight into the development prospects and potential of the industry. I hope that more new entrants, particularly young people, will be attracted to join the construction workforce and ease the long-standing problem of labour shortage in the industry......

The Chief Executive, Mrs Carrie LAM, delivered her maiden Policy Address recently. The Development Bureau will give all-out support to take forward the various policy initiatives to make Hong Kong an even more livable city. With an increasing number of old buildings, there are now more than 5 000 private residential and composite buildings aged 50 or above in Hong Kong. Without timely maintenance, dilapidated buildings may pose hazards to both residents and passers-by. The Policy Address proposes earmarking $3 billion for “Operation Building Bright 2.0” (“OBB 2.0”) to provide subsidy for property owners of higher risk buildings to conduct necessary inspection and repair works. We plan to launch the operation in the second half of 2018. It is expected that about 2 500 buildings will benefit from this initiative in the next five years……

What is your impression of Hong Kong? Is it a bustling city filled with soaring skyscrapers? Or is it a city filled with colour or creativity? Recently I visited the "Hong Kong ∞ Impression" exhibition at the City Gallery in Edinburgh Place, Central, in the company of some foreign guests. The exhibition is presented by the Development Bureau and the Planning Department to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to the motherland and aims to showcase to the public and tourists the achievements of the city’s planning and infrastructure development. It also inspires us to reflect on the future development of the city, and calls for participation in building a liveable, competitive, sustainable and inclusive Hong Kong together. Now let me introduce to you some highlights of the exhibition.……

For every infrastructural project, no matter it is site formation, tunneling or other construction works, comprehensive, professional assessment is essential prior to the commencement of the works. Our colleagues in the Geotechnical Engineering Office (GEO) of the Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD), who are responsible for a wide range of geotechnical-related activities to ensure safe and economic development and use of land in Hong Kong, are those unsung heroes who play an important role in promoting growth of this city. The Hong Kong Geological Survey Section, under the GEO, was established in 1982 to undertake detailed geological survey, compile geological maps of Hong Kong and offer authoritative geological advices to the Government, the engineering sector and the general public. Now I would like to introduce the work of this important unit……

Wandering around the streets and alleys of Wan Chai, you will find some buildings that still preserve the ambience of the old city. The Blue House Cluster (BHC) on Stone Nullah Lane, comprising three tenement buildings built between the 1920’s and 1950’s, namely the Blue House, the Yellow House and the Orange House, is one of the projects under Batch II of the Revitalising Historic Buildings Through Partnership Scheme (Revitalisation Scheme). I am very glad to see that thanks to the persistent efforts and participation of residents and various stakeholders, the BHC has completed its renovation and brought a new look to the community. As the first revitalisation trial in Hong Kong that adopts the “Retain House and Tenant” approach, the historic buildings of the BHC not only serve their original residential purpose, but also witness the changes in tenement buildings and community culture over time. Here, I would like to share with you my recent visit to two households of old and new residents to learn about their living condition……