Hong Kong antiquities body defers decision on historic status of State Theatre Building
Members say they want more information about what is inside the building, alterations and its role in the city’s theatre history
No decision was reached on the historic status of the former State Theatre Building in North Point after the city’s heritage advisory body said it needed more information from the government about the structure.
The Antiquities Advisory Board’s assessment panel earlier proposed to rate the building as a Grade 3 historic structure.
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Board chairman Andrew Lam Siu-lo explained on Monday the board had to delay the grading after questions showed more research was needed.
“After a few rounds of discussion, many members raised numerous questions and concerns on the historic value and the architectural merit of the building,” said Lam.
“But according to the information available, we consider ... it’s inadequate to provide us with a very solid reference or foundation to make any decision.”
Lam said the board needed more information in areas like details of the building’s interior, the extent of alterations and the status of the facility in relation to the development of the city’s theatre history.
The board considered the issue after community activists raised concern that the building was being bought up for redevelopment, and urged the board to grade the building quickly.