Two sides to country parks battle
Country parks are more likely to inspire images of serenity than political bickering. Yet our beloved greenery, which makes up two-fifths of the city, has become the centre of controversy recently.
Country parks are more likely to inspire images of serenity than political bickering. Yet our beloved greenery, which makes up two-fifths of the city, has become the centre of controversy recently. First came an unexpected call from the development minister to consider converting some green areas for housing. Then came a fight by villagers against a government move to include some ecologically sensitive enclaves into the surrounding parks for better conservation. In the most unusual twist, the pan-democrats voted for the government, while the pro-establishment camp sided with villagers to play opposition.
That the issue has become so politically charged is not surprising. Given the shortage of space and the pressure for development, conservation is a course that becomes increasingly hard to champion. The bid to include a Sai Kung enclave was sparked by an outcry against a huge development by a landowner in the pristine Sai Wan area three years ago. Officials repeatedly stressed the inclusion would not affect property ownership. But to the villagers, it means restrictions and reduced property values. A legal challenge is under way.
It should be noted that not all enclaves are considered worthy of conservation. That is why the Democrats' push to include three other enclaves has been vetoed. The government only intends to incorporate part of the 54 sites into country parks, while putting the rest under statutory land use zoning which, hopefully, will regulate future development. The approach shows that officials have not sought to arbitrarily expand country parks for the sake of conservation.
The Legco vote on Sai Wan is just the first of many more to come. The clash underlines the complexities in balancing conservation, development and property rights. The controversy is a reminder that the government needs to do a better job in selling the proposals. Villagers' sentiments should be taken into account, and they need to be assured that their legitimate rights would not be curbed as a result.