Overcrowding and planning problems to be tackled
A study is to be launched by the Planning Department to find ways to make shopping and sightseeing in Mongkok more enjoyable for residents and tourists.
One preliminary idea contained in government papers which were submitted to the Town Planning Board yesterday is to improve pedestrian connections between Ladies Street and other shopping areas in the district.
Officials also want to see more trees in the district and to create more street activities.
Mongkok is the most popular spot in Hong Kong for mainland tourists but it is becoming increasingly crowded, and planning problems are worsening.
The Planning Department says there are insufficient pedestrian links between shopping areas in the district, traffic congestion is severe, and the pavements are too narrow, forcing pedestrians to walk on roads.
The Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong welcomed the study yesterday.