Following is a question by the Hon Choy So-yuk and a written reply by the Secretary for Housing, Planning and Lands, Mr Michael Suen, in the Legislative Council today (February 4):
Question:
It has been reported that the Government is currently studying the feasibility of setting up a special industrial zone in the river loop area of Shenzhen River. However, as a number of endangered avian species and national protected animals are in the vicinity in the area, implementing the development plan will cause serious damage to the ecological environment there. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council whether:
(a) in carrying out the above feasibility study, the authorities will conduct ecological survey of the relevant area to ascertain the animal species dwelling there; and
(b) the authorities will regard the preservation of animal species dwelling in the area as a prerequisite when considering whether or not the above development plan should be implemented?
Reply:
Madam President,
(a) The Planning Department is conducting a long-term planning study entitled "Hong Kong 2030 : Planning Vision and Strategy" ("Hong Kong 2030") which covers, among other things, the long-term development of the border area, including the river loop area. The scope of study includes the development potential and constraints of the border area. In the course of the study, the Planning Department has made reference to many ecological surveys and relevant study results pertaining to that area, as well as information and advice from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department. The technical report concerned is available on the "Hong Kong 2030" website (at https://www.pland.gov.hk/pland_en/p_study/comp_s/hk2030/index.htm, Working Paper No. 32). As a strategic planning study, the "Hong Kong 2030" only explores the development of the border area, (including the river loop area) at a conceptual level, and puts forward development options for public consideration and discussion. The Administration has not yet come to a conclusion on the development of the border area (including the river loop area). When a clear idea on the use and development of that area is available, the relevant bureaux and departments will conduct feasibility study on the development concept, including an assessment on the environmental impact. The need for a field ecological survey will then be ascertained in the light of relevant departments' advice.
(b) In examining and deciding the planning and future development of the river loop area, the Administration will take into account all relevant factors, including the possible impact on the environment (including the ecological environment), the geographical position and the transport and infrastructural support. This is in line with what we do for other planning proposals. We will certainly take into account the views from different sectors of the community and consider the economic and social development needs of Hong Kong, with a view to striking a right balance between development and environment protection and comply with the important principle of sustainable development.
Ends/Wednesday, February 4, 2004
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