Convenor urges mainland development link
Executive Council convenor Chung Sze-yuen has called for strategic development with the mainland.
In a speech on Hong Kong planning, Mr Chung, a top aide to Tung Chee-hwa, said he opposed development in isolation from the mainland.
'The SAR is in need of a long-term macroeconomic plan which takes into consideration the development of the Pearl River Delta and its surrounding districts,' he told the Institute of Engineers' annual dinner.
Mr Chung has been appointed by Mr Tung to his Commission for Strategic Development.
He said colonial rule had prevented integrated planning with the neighbouring regions.
'After the reunification with China under the concept of one country, development need not be confined within its physical boundary,' he stressed.
He highlighted two suggested development projects on Lantau for further examination. They included relocating the Kwai Chung container port westward to northwest Lantau or west of Castle Peak to facilitate freight around the delta region.
Another proposal was developing a second metropolis on northeast Lantau to go with the plan for a highway to Green Island on Hong Kong West.
'All these, if feasible, should form part of a long-term strategic development plan for the SAR,' said Mr Chung.
He said the construction of the Lingding Yang Bridge between Zhuhai and Hong Kong West would complement the new airport at Chek Lap Kok as the focal point for air travel and air freight in the region.
