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Tree experts want better protection for two symbols of Hong Kong’s heritage as demolition work threatens banyans

  • Trees are part of former government site to be sold for redevelopment
  • Protection zone is far from ideal, according to member of government advisory panel

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Banyan trees surrounded by construction waste at a demolition site of Argyle Street in Mong Kok. Photo: Edmond So

Tree experts have called on the government to strengthen protection for two banyans threatened by demolition work, and said remedial measures taken by the government’s contractor were below standard.

The Post reported on Sunday that the two sizeable trees on a prime government site in Mong Kok, which is to be sold for commercial development, were surrounded by piles of wreckage and waste, including rusted bars and foam mattresses, sparking concern among local residents and tree experts.

On Wednesday, the Development Bureau admitted that part of barriers protecting the trees had been removed by its contractor during site clearance, “resulting in accumulation of debris near the trees”.

The site was the office of the Water Supplies Department for decades, but is to be sold for office and commercial development in two to three years. It is managed by the Architectural Services Department, which has commissioned a contractor to demolish the vacant building.

The banyan trees are considered to be a symbol of Hong Kong’s heritage. Photo: Edmond So
The banyan trees are considered to be a symbol of Hong Kong’s heritage. Photo: Edmond So
The poor handling of the trees, seen as a symbol of the city’s heritage and likely to be classified for government protection, highlights a long-standing problem in Hong Kong over tree management.
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