A major architectural firm's call to demolish the Central Market building and turn the Central Police Station complex into a retail-entertainment hub with hotel and luxury apartments has revived the debate on the fate of the two buildings.
Central and Western District Councillors and a vice-chairman of the Hong Kong Institute of Architects said the suggestion showed no respect for the territory's heritage. The councillors want to preserve the buildings for their historic and cultural value.
Aedas, an international architectural firm, has identified a 'golden bracelet' trail in Central - a circular route taking in the International Finance Centre, Exchange Square, The Landmark, Chater House, Alexandra House, Prince's Building, Lan Kwai Fong and Soho, all linked by footbridges and escalators.
Hongkong Land commissioned the firm to renovate, connect and redevelop 12 of its largest properties in Central.
However, Keith Griffiths, Aedas' Asia chairman, said his company's proposal was not linked to any property developments.
Mr Griffiths was confident the trail would be unrivalled anywhere in the world. But he said: 'Two gems are missing in the golden bracelet.'
