The new Sha Tau Kok Public Pier planned and constructed by the Civil Engineering and Development Department, opened today (April 24) for use by residents.
Director of Civil Engineering and Development, Mr Chai Sung-veng, said at the opening ceremony that the Government had taken into thorough consideration public safety, functional needs, future usage and economic effectiveness in rebuilding the pier to make it both functionally efficient, structurally safe and durable.
He said the new pier, costing about $46 million, had a roof to shelter users from sunlight and rain and the number of berths was increased from two to four to meet future needs.
Built in early 1960's, the old pier was used for loading and unloading goods as well as for berthing of kaitos. After 50 years of service, large scale maintenance was required frequently due to weather and sea erosion.
Having considered public safety, and economic effectiveness of further maintenance, the Government decided to reconstruct the pier and started the work in December 2004, Mr Chai said.
He thanked the North District Council, Sha Tau Kok District Rural Committee and local community for their advice and support during the design and construction of the project.
Also officiating at the ceremony were the Chairman of North District Council and the Chairman of Sha Tau Kok District Rural Committee, Mr Lau Tin-sang; North District Officer Mr Wong Chung-yan; Border District Commander Mr Michael Rex Demaid-Groves; The First vice-chairman of Sha Tau Kok District Rural Committee, Mr Lee Ping-wah and Deputy General Manager of China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd, Mr Yao Yong-xin.
Ends/Tuesday, April 24, 2007