Arch SD statement on progress of new school project

In response to press enquiries on the allegations in a press report that two secondary school projects had suffered from delays and would be completed beyond their schedules, a spokesman for the Architectural Services Department (Arch SD) stressed today (August 26) that the construction of the two secondary schools in Tseung Kwan O was on schedule.

The spokesman pointed out that the schools had been scheduled for completion in November this year in accordance with the then Education Department's schools programme and as approved by the Public Works Select Committee. The concerned school operating bodies have been well aware of this programme and have accorded appropriate planning.

The spokesman said that of the 22 new school projects under the management of Arch SD which were scheduled for operation in the new school year, 21 had already been completed and handed over to the school operating bodies in July and August.

The only one project that fails to complete as scheduled is a primary school project at Sze Mei Street, San Po Kong. Works will be completed in September.

The spokesman added that during the course of construction, the progress of certain school projects had once been behind schedule due to the unsatisfactory performance of contractors. However, with close monitoring by the Arch SD, the schools were eventually completed on time and handed over to the school operating bodies to tie in with the commencement of the new school year.

He said that the Arch SD had been working closely with the Education and Manpower Bureau to ensure that new school projects were approved and construction started in good time for completion within the summer holidays.

"We regret that the school premises at Sze Mei Street can not be made available for operation before the commencement of the school year and the inconvenience that may arise from the delay," the spokesman stressed.

"We will impose regulatory action on non-performing contractors and will consider barring them from bidding for future contracts," he added.

End/Tuesday, August 26, 2003
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