Resumption of land in Sai Ying Pun gazetted

The Lands Department today (December 19) announced the resumption of land in Sai Ying Pun for a redevelopment project of the Urban Renewal Authority (URA).

The redevelopment project has been included in the first Business Plan of the URA for 2002-03. Its implementation will help to rejuvenate the old district concerned and improve the living conditions of its residents.

A total of 64 interests in First Street, Second Street and Centre Street will be resumed under the Lands Resumption Ordinance. The affected interests will revert to the Government three months from the date of the Gazette Notice. Details of the private land affected are contained in the Gazette published today.

Apart from their entitlement to statutory compensation, eligible owners of domestic property will be offered an ex-gratia home purchase allowance or supplementary allowance as appropriate.

Owners and tenants affected can make statutory claims under the Lands Resumption Ordinance and, if the claims cannot be settled by agreement, can apply to the Lands Tribunal for adjudication. Any professional fees reasonably incurred for making such a claim may be reimbursed by the Government. Occupiers of commercial properties may also be eligible for an ex-gratia allowance in lieu of the right to make statutory claims for business loss and disturbance.

Eligible domestic occupiers will be offered rehousing or an ex-gratia cash allowance in lieu of rehousing. Rehousing will be in units provided by the Hong Kong Housing Authority, the Hong Kong Housing Society, or the URA itself.

Upon completion of resumption and clearance, the site covering an area of about 3,511 square metres will be granted to the URA at nominal premium for redevelopment.

The project will contribute to general environmental improvements in the locality. The site will be developed principally for commercial/residential use with the provision of a residential care home for the elderly and open space.

Ends/Friday, December 19, 2003

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