A massive network of subways has been proposed for Tsim Sha Tsui, linking the new KCR station at Tsim Sha Tsui East with the MTR.
The $1.4 billion project envisages air-conditioned tunnels, moving walkways and underground shops.
The subways will be built under Mody Road, Middle Road, Blenheim Avenue, Signal Hill Garden, and a park alongside Chatham Road South. Up to 11 entrances are planned for the network, which will funnel passengers between Tsim Sha Tsui station and the new KCR station.
The new KCR station will be at the end of a rail link between Tsim Sha Tsui East and the present Hunghom terminus on which construction is due to start this year and finish in 2004. Details of the subway network were given to legislators yesterday, but some said the project appeared too ambitious.
Chan Kam-lam of the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment of Hong Kong said: 'It looks good but it's really expensive and we have to bear the maintenance cost, too.
'It is not that accessible either as there aren't too many entrances. We should find out whether it's worth building the subway only for the KCR.' The system will be funded and managed by the Government.
Kowloon-Canton Railway Corporation senior director James Blake said design details and estimates were still being drafted.