Tourism bid to seduce village dragged into park

New sites for stargazing and camping will turn scenic Tai Long Sai Wan into an eco-tourism destination, according to new management plans.

Lawmakers endorsed the government proposal to fold the enclave into Sai Kung East Country Park late last year amid resistance from villagers and the Heung Yee Kuk, which represents indigenous communities in the New Territories.

But the government hopes the business opportunities will get residents onside. "We would like to promote Sai Wan as an eco-tourism destination and the participation of villagers will be essential," said Franco Ng Kwok-yan, senior country parks officer for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department.

The plans include turning the northern beach into a campsite, building a sitting-out area on the southern beach and turning old village houses into licensed guesthouses run by villagers.

Woodlands and mangroves would be "enhanced" and a stargazing area would be built.

A new footpath from Chui Tung Au to Sai Wan is also proposed. The current trail into Sai Wan is being blockaded by villagers in protest at being dragged into the country park.

Non-profit organisations will be able to apply for funds for projects through the Environment and Conservation Fund.