Group wants project's plot ratio reduced
An environmental group is to file an application with the Planning Department demanding a reduction in the plot ratio of a development in Tsuen Wan West, in an effort to lower temperatures in the town centre.
A spokesman for Green Sense said Tsuen Wan suffered from the heat island effect, which meant temperatures in the town centre were higher than those near the sea. Cement in the town centre absorbs heat during the day and releases it at night, leading to higher temperatures than elsewhere in the district.
In a study done on Sunday, Green Sense found the temperature in the town centre was 38 degrees Celsius, three to four degrees higher than areas near the sea. The group will apply to the department for the plot ratio of a proposed seven-building development in Tsuen Wan West to be reduced to three from five.
Plot ratio defines the total floor area of buildings allowed to be erected on a site. It is calculated by dividing net floor area by the net site area.
The Green Sense spokesman said the number of buildings would have to be cut to four if the plot ratio was lowered. 'Tsuen Wan district residents' health and air quality are more important than developing these buildings, which would create a wall effect.'
On Friday, the MTR Corporation sought expressions of interest for the proposed development of seven residential buildings, comprising 1,776 flats.
It is one of three sites the rail company plans to develop in the area. One of the other two sites is on top of Tsuen Wan West station, where 11 residential buildings are planned.
The MTR Corp inherited these sites from the merger with Kowloon-Canton Railway Corporation.
