According to the co-founder of a non-profit urban activism organisation, when the government consults on a project, it has already made up its mind on what it wants to achieve. Therefore citizens have little real input.
'That's why people get upset - they feel it's not true engagement,' said Paul Zimmerman of Designing Hong Kong. He added the government had a vested interest in pushing for development because a large portion of government revenue comes from land-related projects.
He said a lack of leadership and the rigid government structure had led to a lack of sensitivity in Lulu cases.
'With senior management busy with other issues, most projects are run by the departments involved and that doesn't give you flexibility. It's very rigid. Their decisions are based on rules and guidelines rather than vision.'
Zimmerman said the government should declare its interests clearly and as early as possible so people can address them properly.
Projects need to be approved by the Town Planning Board, which is made up of government officials, planners, architects, engineers, and representatives from district councils, the legislative council and the public.