Letters | Let Hong Kong’s Flower Market flourish without excessive curbs
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I am writing to express my deep concern and dissatisfaction with the recent policy amendment that prohibits shops around the Flower Market in Prince Edward from displaying plants and flowers outside shop areas.
For decades, the Flower Market has been a symbol of natural beauty amid our urban landscape, a place where a rich tapestry of colours and fragrances and the sheer joy of nature’s bounty greeted everyone who wandered through its lanes. The outdoor displays were an integral part of the cultural and social fabric of the area, providing a sense of openness and an inviting atmosphere that enhanced the shopping experience.
By enforcing a policy that strips away this essential feature, the authorities have inadvertently sanitised the uniquely charming Flower Market. The vibrant rows of flowers and plants that once spilled out of shops created a picturesque scene, beckoning visitors from near and far. Now, the market is left with a sterile facade.
Moreover, this policy has troubling implications for the livelihoods of the local vendors. The outdoor displays were a crucial aspect of their business, attracting passers-by and allowing them to appreciate the variety and freshness of the goods on offer. With the new restriction, sales might suffer, potentially leading to shop closures and further erosion of the market’s character.