Iconic Boathouse in Hong Kong's Stanley set to be demolished

Stanley's iconic Boathouse restaurant is set to be torn down and replaced with a boutique hotel in the latest planning decision to spark anger and dismay among locals.

Constructed in 1951 and listed as a grade III historical site, the three-storey landmark building is a popular draw for both residents and tourists and is a recommended attraction in a number of guidebooks.

Despite objections from residents, the Town Planning Board earlier this month approved a plan by site-owner Miramar Hotel and Investment, a subsidiary of Henderson Land Development, to demolish the restaurant and build a 10-storey hotel.

"It is the weirdest thing I have ever heard that has happened in Stanley," said Michael Bentley, a businessman working in the property market. "Stanley is unique in Hong Kong. Building a hotel would not add any benefit.

"But it is Hong Kong. You have to roll with the punches."

Residents of the town on the territory's southern shore say the proposed hotel would detract from the character and ambiance of the area.

In a formal objection to the proposal, resident Brenda Lee urged the government to consider the historical value of the building.