Central Market shopkeepers still not told they must move out

Surveying work for renovation on the historic Central Market is about to begin, but some shopkeepers in the building still do not know they will have to move out in three months.

The Urban Renewal Authority will take over the 70-year-old building from the government in two to three months. But tenants of five shops in the so-called shop arcade, a walkway connecting the market to commercial buildings nearby, still have not been told they have to go.

A man surnamed Yuen, who has run a tailor's business there for 15 years, said no government officials had contacted him. 'I hope I can stay here after the market is renovated,' Yuen said. 'At least the government should provide assistance when I look for another shop.'

He said many people were still interested in renting the neighbouring units, but the government had stopped leasing, leaving the arcade half empty. Although the remaining shopkeepers say they have heard nothing, consultation is due to start next month.

Professor David Lung Ping-yee, chairman of the advisory committee that will consult the community on possible uses and operation of the market, said the grade-three historic building, one of the first pieces of modern architecture in Hong Kong built with reinforced concrete, had been well maintained.

But a four- to six-month structural survey was still necessary to ensure any alteration would be safe, said Lung, who will lead about 10 members comprising district councillors, historians, conservationists and merchants in the consultation.