‘Unconstitutional’ rules on access to Civic Square set to face legal challenge

The government is set to face a judicial review of newly imposed restrictions on access to “Civic Square”, a popular protest spot outside government headquarters in Admiralty.

The forecourt, in front of the east-wing entrance of the Tamar complex, was closed in July to enable the construction of a three-metre fence which the government said was needed to improve security.

It has now reopened but new rules mean the public can no longer enter the square between 11pm and 6am, while protests will only be allowed on public holidays and Sundays with prior consent from the building’s management.

Pan-democrat lawmaker Albert Ho Chun-yan said the new restrictions violated the public’s rights, and plans to take a legal challenge against them to “the highest court necessary”.

“The area has been open for the purpose of public assembly for the past three years. I just can’t understand why this policy can stop,” said Ho, who is currently in talks with a barrister and solicitor.