Hongkongers want eco-lodges and adventure activities, but no big changes for country parks
HK$2.6 million study finds locals are looking for improved recreation options and facilities, but consider existing use of sites to be appropriate
Treetop climbing, water sports, and more camping sites and eco-friendly accommodation are just a few of the items on Hongkongers’ wish lists for the city’s “green lung”, according to a government-commissioned survey.
However, the results of the year-long study – and a subsequent review by consultants with some country park committee members and stakeholders – found there was little appetite for major change, according to a public document released on Friday.
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department spent HK$2.6 million (US$330,000) on the study to review how to boost the educational and recreational appeal of the city’s country parks.
“Workshop participants generally considered that the existing recreational uses in country parks such as hiking and camping were appropriate,” the working paper said. “While they did not have strong views on the preferred options, they expressed that any options proposed should not compromise the conservation objectives [of country parks and special areas].”
Such areas, which make up three-quarters of the city, are constantly under threat from the government and developers looking to convert small chunks of green land into housing developments in the face of Hong Kong’s acute land shortage.
Among the 2,000 people surveyed last year, the general public and country park users had similar views about what improvements they wanted in terms of overnight facilities, adventure activities, leisure and so-called ancillary facilities.
