In response to recent remarks by villagers of the Kwu Tung North and Fanling North New Development Areas (KTN and FLN NDAs) that they had been notified of another round of pre-clearance surveys (commonly known as freezing surveys) to be conducted in the second half of this year by the Lands Department (LandsD), a spokesman for the LandsD clarified today (April 23) that no such notices had been issued by the department. The LandsD completed the freezing surveys for structures and households within the project scope of the NDAs some years ago, and no new freezing survey will be conducted covering the same project scope.
The spokesman said, "The LandsD conducted a comprehensive freezing survey for the structures, households, shop operators, factory operators and others affected by the KTN and FLN NDAs Project in January 2014 in order to collect and register the particulars and occupation status of the structures and business undertakings which may be affected by the development project. As the scope of works for the NDAs has changed thereafter, parts of the areas were not covered by the freezing survey conducted in January 2014. The LandsD therefore conducted supplementary freezing surveys in December 2015 and November 2016 for the affected structures located within the particular parts concerned. The information obtained from the surveys will be used to assess the eligibility of those affected by the clearance for rehousing and/or ex-gratia allowances. When the Government commences the land resumption and clearance procedures in the future, the LandsD will take the initiative to contact those affected to review their eligibility."
The spokesman added that if residents of Kwu Tung North and Fanling North have any queries about the compensation, ex-gratia allowances and rehousing related to the NDAs, they can call the LandsD's hotline on 3516 8233. When in need, residents can also seek assistance from the Social Service Team engaged by the Government (Tel: 6601 1673 for Kwu Tung North or 2503 0818 for Fanling North). The Social Service Team will refer their cases to relevant government departments for follow-up as appropriate.
Ends/Monday, April 23, 2018
Issued at HKT 17:09
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