Yellow anti-skid coating on Sheung Wan heritage steps to be removed amid criticism that historic Hong Kong stairways would be ruined
- Structures date back to 19th century and are pending review by Antiquities Advisory Board
- Concern group says authorities admitted to error in meeting and will rectify coating with tape instead
Hong Kong’s highway officials have agreed to remove yellow anti-skid coating on two flights of century-old street stairs in Sheung Wan following criticism the work would destroy the historic steps.
The U-turn by the Highways Department was revealed after a meeting with the Central and Western Concern Group, which said officials had admitted to the mistake and learned their lesson.
Last December, the anti-skid coating was found on about 100 steps along Shing Wong Street in Sheung Wan and the neighbouring Chancery Lane. Conservation groups and district councillors criticised the installation and raised concerns over the possible impact on the preservation of the heritage streets.
The department also came under fire for not consulting the Antiquities and Monuments Office – the government unit that oversees the preservation of historical monuments – before applying the coating.
Parts of the two stairways in question are pending a review by the Antiquities Advisory Board, and could become a statutory heritage protected by law.