The heights of arrogance

The News

In July, the Real Estate Developers' Association (Reda) of Hong Kong applied for a judicial review of building height limits set by the Town Planning Board (TPB).

Reda claims that developers were not given a fair hearing during the planning process. They want the TPB to revise the Outline Zoning Plans (OZPs) - area-specific frameworks allowing certain land uses - and specifically the restrictions on building heights.

The environmental group Green Sense argues that height restrictions are necessary, and criticises developers for not accepting defeat on this issue. They say that this reflects the reality of 'developer hegemony' - rule by powerful developers - in Hong Kong.

Green Sense complains that before height restrictions were legislated, developers built many abnormally tall buildings. These include two ifc and The Masterpiece. Therefore, there are huge variations in building heights across Hong Kong. This mars the Victoria Harbour skyline that many people would enjoy if these 'toothpick' buildings were not erected.

Green Sense also points out that Causeway Bay's air pollution is always very high. Vehicle exhaust fumes are trapped between rows of tall, closely packed buildings. This is the 'urban canyon' effect. Research has also shown that temperatures in central Causeway Bay are as much as three degrees Celsius higher than those on the waterfront. This shows the 'heat island' effect.

Roy Tam Hoi-pong, head of Green Sense, said the height controls were 'crucial' because they help to prevent wall-like effects that block air ventilation.