We can improve our waterfront without ruining its character

I agree that some waterfront facilities are substandard and that there is room for improvement ('Waterfront facilities found lacking' , March 8). However, the unique character for the harbourfront must not be destroyed.

There are clearly insufficient facilities in certain areas. For example, signage is poor, there are not enough washrooms and no general-use shelters. This is inconvenient for people who go to the waterfront and want to enjoy it. Even some of the most basic facilities are lacking. They should be there for visitors who want to appreciate our harbour.

Your article also highlighted safety issues that need to be addressed. In some cases landing steps are rudimentary or non-existent. Sometimes people can only board boats by using ladders.

Few accidents have been reported but the risks are there. We have one of the world's most beautiful harbours and it is popular with tourists. Even more will be tempted to visit if we improve facilities at the waterfront and make it safer to board boats. This will be a boost for the economy. However, we must take care with the changes that we make. I see similarities with the revamp of Tai O fishing village on Lantau. While improvements are necessary, planners must ensure that its unique character remains intact.

The same principle should be applied to any work done at the waterfront. I want to see better facilities, but not a brand new harbourfront.

I would not want to see reminders of our past, such as the sampans, disappear. They have to be allowed to continue the commercial role they play in the life of the harbour. They are part of our collective memory and it would be a great shame if we lost them.