Public engagement on Kai Tak Fantasy competition commences

The public engagement on the Kai Tak Fantasy (KTF) - International Ideas Competition on Urban Planning and Design commenced today (June 20). Members of the public are invited to share their views and opinions on the urban planning and design requirements of the competition during the two-month public engagement.

At a press briefing today, the Head of the Energizing Kowloon East Office (EKEO) of the Development Bureau, Mr Raymond Lee, introduced the background and arrangement of the competition, which will be launched by the end of 2013 and open to planners, architects, engineers, landscape architects, surveyors and professionals from all over the world to participate.

In his 2013 Policy Address, the Chief Executive announced the proposal to create a recreational landmark, the KTF, at the site of the former airport runway tip in the Kai Tak Development. The KTF would become an "edutainment" destination reflecting Kai Tak's unique aviation, maritime and transportation history.

Based on the Kai Tak approved outline zoning plan, the EKEO will launch an international ideas competition to look for creative thoughts and design excellence for the KTF. The competition aims to optimise KTF's development potential as a world class tourism and entertainment hub, which will have a synergy effect with the various Energizing Kowloon East initiatives in facilitating the transformation of Kowloon East and sustaining the long-term economic growth of Hong Kong.

"The KTF covers an area of approximately 80 hectares that comprises three major elements, namely Kai Tak Runway Tip in the Kai Tak Development, Kwun Tong Ferry Pier Action Area and the water body in between, i.e. Kwun Tong Typoon Shelter. We believe the KTF has a huge potential to be developed into one of the most attractive places in the region. We look forward to soliciting creative and innovative proposals through this international ideas competition," Mr Lee said.

A series of public engagement activities, including a public consultation meeting on July 27, will take place from today till August 19. Comments and views can be sent to the EKEO via email (general@kaitakfantasy.hk), fax (3904 1161) or by post (address: 122 Hoi Bun Road, Kwun Tong).

Mr Lee also presented the new Conceptual Master Plan (CMP) version 3.0 of Energizing Kowloon East at today's press briefing. The CMP is an evolving document incorporating public views collected through continuous engagement activities since the establishment of the EKEO in June 2012. It also includes updates on the work progress of various Energizing Kowloon East initiatives. In CMP 3.0, new opportunities are identified in the Kowloon East transformation process in four areas, namely Kai Tak Fantasy; creativity, arts and culture; green buildings; and industrial culture and heritage.

The publication of a Green Map on the EKEO's website showing green buildings in Kowloon East was also announced at the briefing. The Green Map will help to promote the adoption of low carbon building design and green measures in Kowloon East.

Mr Lee said the EKEO would continue to press ahead with policy initiatives under Energizing Kowloon East to transform it into an attractive place where people will like to do business, work, play and stay.

Information about the KTF, CMP 3.0 and the Green Map is available at the EKEO's website (www.ekeo.gov.hk).

Ends/Thursday, June 20, 2013
Issued at HKT 12:23

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