Built in the 1930s, Central Market was the quintessence of a traditional Hong Kong wet market. Now, it boasts shops and artisan cafes, not unlike those in nearby PMQ. Photo: Nora Tam
Since the demolition of Queen’s Pier in 2007, there have been growing calls among Hongkongers to preserve the city’s heritage. Leader Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, still secretary for development back in 2007, seemingly responded to these calls. In 2008, the “Revitalising Historic Buildings Through Partnership Scheme” was launched, followed by the “Conserving Central” initiative in 2009. Both schemes aimed to preserve and transform old buildings into “unique cultural landmarks”. More than 10 year later, however, what has actually been achieved?
Sadly, the government lacks a clear objective in preserving Hong Kong’s old sites. In many cases, preservation projects put a strong emphasis on profit or financial viability. Murray Building in Central is a case in point; the former government office building, which dates back to 1969, has now been transformed into a luxury hotel. Such practices beg the question: is the aim really preservation, or just commercialisation?
Conservation projects should ensure the cultural significance of a building or site is preserved before its profit potential is considered. It is absurd to see the government putting the cart before the horse.
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In times of upheaval, Hong Kong must do more to hold on to its heritage
In times of upheaval, Hong Kong must do more to hold on to its heritage
As far as I can see, so-called “preserved” sites are losing their original and distinguishing features. Built in the 1930s, Central Market was the quintessence of a traditional Hong Kong wet market. Now, it boasts grocery stores and artisan cafes, among other shops. Aside from the obvious issue of gentrification, many of the shops are not that different to those in PMQ and Tai Kwun, both of which are within walking distance. Why bother to make Central Market another PMQ or Tai Kwun when its unique cultural value is lost in the process?
Let’s call a spade a spade. Conservation is not just about retaining the original architecture of a building, but maintaining a meaningful connection between the building and local community. It is understandable that a building’s function may change over time to fulfil the needs of the people, but over-commercialisation makes it difficult to give a space new value or meaning. Hong Kong’s historical sites are tied to our collective memory and cultural identity. It is time for the government to rethink its conservation policy before it is too late.
Peter Lau, undergraduate in urban studies, Chinese University of Hong Kong
