Hong Kong environment authorities place 13 conditions on plan to build tech hub near mainland Chinese border
- Pond filling for San Tin Technopole development only to begin once ecological mitigation measures designed to offset losses start, authorities say
- ‘After the construction commences, we will monitor the improvement of the ecological environment,’ Director of Environmental Protection Samuel Chui says
Director of Environmental Protection Samuel Chui Ho-kwong said on Friday that approval to press ahead with the San Tin Technopole was subject to 13 conditions. But three green groups said the conditions were minor and could not guarantee ecological benefits.
The Development Bureau said the approval acted as an “important step” and a “solid foundation” for the next stage of work, adding that relevant authorities would make every effort to follow up on the conditions.
Under the requirements, the Civil Engineering and Development Department can only start filling in 90 hectares (222 acres) worth of fish ponds once work begins at the Sam Po Shue Wetland Conservation Park, which aims to compensate for ecological losses resulting from the project.
Responding to concerns from green groups, the environmental official stressed the impact assessment was “scientific” and authorities would closely monitor the implementation of mitigation measures.
“After the construction commences, we will monitor the improvement of the ecological environment. If we discover any issues, we will request modifications right away,” he said.