There was broad consensus in the community that the Central Police Station (CPS) Compound should be conserved and revitalised as early as possible for the enjoyment of the public, a spokesman for the Development Bureau said today (May 20).
The Development Bureau received from the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) the Public Consultation Report on the latter's proposal to preserve and revitalise the historic CPS Compound. The report pointed out that there was general support for the club to proceed with the conservation and revitalisation of the CPS Compound as such an important heritage site should not be left to deteriorate.
"We wish to thank the HKJC for its extensive efforts in engaging the public during the six-month consultation period. The exercise has been very useful in collating views on the conservation of this important cluster of declared monuments and in generating considerable interest and discussion on heritage matters.
"Based on views expressed by various sectors during the public consultation, we are pleased that there is broad consensus in support of the proposed non-profit-making mode to preserve and revitalise the CPS Compound for the enjoyment of the public. There is also general appreciation of the HKJC's commitment to undertake this major heritage project as a gift to the people of Hong Kong.
"In particular, we note that the Central and Western District Council has passed a motion that supports in principle the Government's early implementation of the mode of financial support and operation as proposed by the HKJC to revitalise the CPS Compound.
"The public also generally support a revitalisation plan to preserve the historic meaning of the buildings through conservation arrangements and the installation of a law and order museum, while incorporating new facilities such as performing arts venues, shops and restaurants with unique characteristics, thus making the complex a destination for all. There is particularly strong support from the arts and cultural community for the proposed arts facilities and performance venues to be provided in the compound, which will complement the West Kowloon Cultural District development,"the spokesman said.
The HKJC report highlighted the fact that the proposed new structure to house the various performance and arts venues and its height and design had attracted considerable discussion and quite diverse views. While some welcomed the conceptual design, others found it too overwhelming and not in harmony with the heritage site. In particular, many of the comments against the new structure came from residents living in the vicinity who expressed concern regarding the building's height and bulk and its impact on the surrounding environment.
"We fully understand the views and concerns expressed by residents living in the vicinity of the CPS Compound. The club has always kept an open mind on the proposed design concept and it has also commissioned a conservation management plan for the project. We believe the views expressed will provide good reference for the Government to take the project forward in partnership with the club.
"In future, the revitalisation proposal will also have to go through the needed statutory procedures before implementation, including seeking approval from the Town Planning Board as well as a traffic impact assessment, since much concern was expressed over this aspect during the public engagement exercise,”the spokesman said.
Ends/Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Issued at HKT 14:30
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