An exhibition of the cartographic drawings of some of Hong Kong's historical buildings opens at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre today, almost three weeks after it was decided that the Central Market had no preservation value - thus sealing its fate for demolition. The exhibition, which will run until December 3, comprises cartographic drawings of Hong Kong's historical architecture, many of which are considered to be documents of important historical value. The drawings and surveys were undertaken by architecture students from various universities in the region, including the Guangdong Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology, and the University of Hong Kong. One of the oldest surveys on display features the Tsang Tai-uk hakka village in Sha Tin, which was drawn in 1965. The exhibition comes at a time when faith in the preservation of Hong Kong's dwindling number of historical buildings is low. But curator Cissy Ho Wing-see insists the drawings are not on display for conservation purposes. 'You can't rely on cartographical drawings alone,' she said. 'While they're important references when it comes to the historical structure and design, they alone can't help save a building from demolition.' The exhibition will give the public an in-depth look at the composition of older structures of both western and Chinese designs. The Antiquities Advisory Board decision on May 19 to allow the demolition of the Central Market, built in 1938, was a blow to those who consider heritage to be of great cultural importance. Of 14 board members, Bernard Lim Wan-fung, president of the Hong Kong Institute of Architects, was one of two who opposed the demolition. He said the exhibition was a good effort in educating the public about historical buildings, but that it was always preferable to see the real thing. 'You can't replace the buildings themselves, and once they are demolished, all you're left with is a drawing of what once was. 'I do, however, hope that this exhibition encourages people to be more aware of the historical architecture within the city.'