Following is a question by the Hon Ronny Tong and a written reply by the Secretary for Housing, Planning and Lands, Mr Michael Suen, in the Legislative Council today (July 6):
Question:
It has been reported that the developer which purchased Hunghom Peninsula has recently drawn up a renovation plan for that estate, and is prepared to make substantial alterations to its original fitting-out. On the other hand, according to the sale and purchase agreement signed by the Government and that developer, the latter should obtain the Government's permission before conducting any major renovation and alteration. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(a) of the details of the above renovation plan, and whether it has been approved by the Government; if so, whether the authorities have required the developer to pay extra premium; if so, of the amount involved; and
(b) given that renovation works of buildings will generate substantial construction waste, whether the authorities have assessed the impact of the waste generated by the renovation works of Hunghom Peninsula on the environment, and how they will tackle the problem?
Reply:
Madam President,
My reply to the two-part question is as follows:
(a) The developer of Hunghom Peninsula submitted for the Building Authority's approval the relevant building plans concerning the alteration and addition works to the residential and non-residential portions on May 12, 2005 and on June 13, 2005 respectively. The proposed alteration and addition works include the addition of lifts, combination of flats and revision to internal layout, renovation of external walls, and alterations to carpark and emergency vehicular access. The plans are still under processing.
Up to now, the Lands Department has not received any application for lease modification from the developer. Under the established practice, when such an application is received and approved, premium will be assessed by the Lands Department.
(b) Similar to other construction projects, alteration works of Hunghom Peninsula should comply with all the relevant statutory environmental requirements. The Environmental Protection Department is very concerned about the environmental impact due to the construction waste generated in the alteration works and has requested the developer to submit a comprehensive waste management plan. This is to ensure that measures are undertaken to reduce the generation of construction wastes requiring disposal, to manage construction waste properly and to reuse and recycle useful materials. The developer has committed to submitting the plan after the details of the alteration works are finalised.
Ends/Wednesday, July 6, 2005
Issued at HKT 14:50
NNNN