Editorial | Kowloon City needs to keep its character
- Redevelopment near site of city’s old airport has raised concerns for culture of historic area that is home to a sizeable Thai community and other ethnic groups
Despite its small area and relatively short history, Hong Kong has grown into a patchwork of neighbourhoods with unique appeal over the past few decades. They are, however, also undergoing changes constantly, thanks to urban renewal and other development needs.
While some old districts have thankfully transformed without losing their souls and characters, others have sadly disappeared or turned into nothing more than eyesores.
Historic Kowloon City is at the crossroads of transformation. Under the ambitious blueprint unveiled by the Urban Renewal Authority recently, parts of the area near the old airport will be revitalised into a “liveable and walkable community” with a gateway to the redeveloped area of Kai Tak.
The project has promised 4,350 new flats, better municipal facilities, more green space and on-street shops that reflect the neighbourhood’s characters.
The area has been undergoing gradual transformation since the airport was moved to Lantau Island in 1998, triggering patchy private redevelopments that lack holistic planning and coordination.