BOUQUETS AND BRICKBATS FOR COUNTRY PARK RAILINGS
I write in support of those correspondents who have expressed concern about the railings installed along the catchwaters in country parks.
Cheung Ping-ang of the Water Supplies Department (South China Morning Post, January 10) said the railings were 'normally' put up only at the catchwater side of the paths. This does not appear to be the case along the catchwater in Tai Tam Country Park where railings have been installed on both sides of the paths. Sections of these railings are found where the drop to the catchwater is only between one-third and about half a metre and there is virtually no drop on the other side.
Moreover, if it is felt that railings are required, surely it would be a good idea to have a design which fits in with the surroundings. For example, in other areas of the parks, less obtrusive designs and materials have been used for paving, signposts and railings by the Agriculture Fisheries and Conservation Department.
The country parks provide a rare tranquil environment amongst the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong.
We take to the trails whenever we can and are proud when visiting friends marvel at the fact that only a few minutes' walk from a main road are areas of natural beauty with minimal urbanisation.
The Chinese name for country parks loosely translates as, 'countryside wilderness park'.
The relevant government departments have done a fantastic job creating and maintaining the trails and promoting the parks.
I urge them to keep up the good work and keep our parks in the countryside as 'wild' as we can.
KELLY LAM
Repulse Bay
Concrete was laid at water catchment areas to collect water and provide maintenance access.
The government was bound to take all reasonable measures to protect members of the public walking near these catchwaters. The railings are not pretty, but that is not why they are there.
I ask your readers to spare a thought for those of us who get around better and go further thanks to the railings. I, for one, appreciate the added safety they provide.
There are plenty of tracks I am unable to use.
I do not want to see our country parks covered in concrete.
However, I just want to have a reasonable chance to get some exercise and enjoy the scenery.
PETER BERRY
Lamma