Hong Kong's Town Planning Board is effectively taking control of the controversial West Kowloon cultural hub project by requiring the developer to seek its approval for any changes to the plan. Under a two-stage approach, endorsed yesterday, the government must seek the board's agreement on the selection of a developer, instead of simply informing the board of its decision. After agreement is reached, the government will sign a provisional deal with the successful bidder. This will incorporate details such as density and plot ratio and be open for public consultation. The arrangements will give the board greater control over key aspects of the plan and protect the integrity of the original proposal.
