The extension of the MTR network from Sha Tin to Central, through Kwun Tong and on to Hong Kong Island, is set to spur revitalisation projects in East Kowloon.
The HK$37.4 billion, 17km rail link will be completed in two sections. The first part, comprising seven stations - Tai Wai, Diamond Hill, Kai Tak, To Kwa Wan, Ma Tau Wai, Ho Man Tin and Hung Hom - is expected to be completed in 2015. The Kwun Tong extension will be built at the same time. The second section of the link - from Hung Hom to Admiralty - will be completed four years later. The link will serve 300,000 residents and a working population of 280,000.
'The project will provide essential support for the proposed new commercial and residential developments, as well as leisure facilities planned at Kai Tak, including the multipurpose Stadium Complex and the Metro Park,' a government spokesman said.
'Old districts, such as To Kwa Wan and Kowloon City, are expected to see a surge of redevelopment opportunities with the improved public transport infrastructure.'
The government will further consult the public on both projects in order to formulate a first-rate and efficient railway scheme that will best serve Hong Kong. Works for both projects are expected to start in 2010.
'The SCL will also provide interchanges with other railway lines. Six of the nine SCL stations - Tai Wai, Diamond Hill, Homantin, Hung Hom, Exhibition, and Admiralty - will provide passengers with either an inter-platform or inter-level interchange for other lines,' the spokesman added.