Developers are more willing to settle land premium deals with the government amid the positive outlook for Hong Kong, according to Lands Department director Bob Pope. Mr Pope said the Walt Disney theme park project on Lantau and the mainland's imminent entry into the World Trade Organisation had had a big impact on confidence. This had led to developers seeking to reach agreement while property prices were relatively low, he said. The latest settlement was HKR International's and Citic Pacific's $1.65 billion premium payment for 2.06 million square feet of developable area in Discovery Bay. Speaking before the launch of a digital map project, Mr Pope said he expected dialogue with developers would continue. Mr Pope said the digital base map was essential for many land-related operations. They include land administration, property development, town planning, public works and utility services. He said two Web sites had been developed on the basis of the department's data. The Web sites of department partners Centaline Property Agency and Telecom Directories - www.centamap.com and www.yp.comhk/ hkcitymap - will provide maps with information on public and commercial facilities.
