In reversal of veto, Hong Kong Legco approves water fountains and activities centre totalling HK$180 million

Pan-democratic lawmakers cry foul that controversial projects generating opposition in two districts are now just one step away from securing funding

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An artist's impression of the water fountains proposed for Kwun Tong. Image: Handout

Published: 6:03pm, 11 Jul 2018Updated: 9:55pm, 11 Jul 2018

Two controversial projects totalling HK$180 million (US$22.9 million) were passed by a Hong Kong legislative subcommittee on Wednesday after being vetoed last month.

They include water fountains in Kwun Tung that cost HK$50 million and a Wan Chai activities centre whose price tag runs at HK$130 million. The approvals mean the plans are just one step away from securing funding from the Legislative Council’s Finance Committee.

Critics have said the fountains are too expensive and not environmentally friendly, while the planned Wan Chai facility has drawn fire because local volleyball courts would have to be relocated to make way for the new building.

After five years of discussion amid increasing opposition in the two districts where the projects would take shape, they were vetoed in the last public works subcommittee meeting held in June when the pan-democrats surprisingly outnumbered their pro-establishment counterparts.

The fountains in Kwun Tong would be located along the district’s existing promenade. Photo: Handout

The pro-establishment camp holds a majority in Legco, with 42 seats out of 68.