Hikers show support for Sai Kung country park plan
Walk across scenic coastal enclave of Tai Long Sai Wan proceeds peacefully, even as rural powerbrokers rally villagers for Legco petition
Conservationists and villagers are entering the final stretch of a battle to shape the fate of Tai Long Sai Wan - a coastal enclave that is likely to be incorporated into a surrounding country park by the end of this month.
Dozens hiked across the scenic Sai Kung enclave into Sai Wan village yesterday to show support for the government plan to make the 17-hectare area part of Sai Kung East Country Park.
Police helped ensure the event proceeded peacefully after 100 Sai Wan villagers and protesters blocked off part of the hiking path into the village last month, causing unexpected disruptions to the Oxfam Trailwalker.
The village, accessible only by sea or on foot, is completely enclosed by the park, which was established in 1978.
Former Observatory director Lam Chiu-ying, who was at yesterday's event, said they were not trying to confront the villagers. "We came out to hike out of goodwill, and I think the villagers understand this," he said.
"Many people in Hong Kong care about our country parks, and we want to work together to find a compromise between conservation and safeguarding villagers' livelihoods."