Q Is old Wan Chai worth preserving?
Having lived in Wan Chai for several years and in that time having seen much development and destruction of old buildings, I hope that what little is left will be preserved.
Of particular interest is the red-brick house built at the turn of the century on Nam Koo Terrace (or otherwise called Nam Kwu Toi), in Ship Street, and mentioned in your article on Monday. This has an interesting history and is one of the few old houses of its type left in Hong Kong.
According to my information, this house is, or was, due for demolition by Hopewell Holdings to build a hotel complex. This would not only destroy a fine old building but further destroy what is left of interest in Ship Street and a historical part of Wan Chai.
Surely, this building - along with the rest of Ship Street - could be turned into something useful, such as a museum or a teahouse, and be a major asset to walking up this street, rather than more of the same new hotels and office blocks. Only by bringing these matters to the attention of the developers and government will there be any hope left, otherwise they will surely all be gone.
One mention on the Wan Chai Market, another fine building that could complement the developments already underway in Wan Chai Road. With a little imagination, this feature could help further attract people to the area once the development in this road is finalised.
