‘Deficiencies’ in maintenance, repairs at Hong Kong parks mar visitor experience
Ombudsman urges authorities to overhaul management of country parks, including addressing delays in repair works and poor cleanliness
Inadequate monitoring, lengthy repairs and poor information for hikers are among the “deficiencies” that have undermined public safety and visitors’ experience at Hong Kong’s country parks, according to the city’s ombudsman, which urged relevant authorities to overhaul how they manage and maintain facilities.
In a report released on Monday, the Office of the Ombudsman said it made 42 recommendations to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), all of which had been accepted by the country parks manager.
“Hong Kong’s country parks, hiking trails and related countryside facilities are important public resources for hiking, countryside recreation, leisure activities and enjoying nature,” the watchdog said.
“Proper management and maintenance of countryside facilities are vital for ensuring public safety, maintaining the normal operation of these facilities and enhancing the quality of the rural environment.”
The ombudsman cited a rain shelter in Aberdeen Country Park as an example, saying it took five years and nine months to rebuild after its roof was first reported damaged in April 2019, despite the case being flagged as “urgent” or “very urgent” throughout the period.
By April 2021, the damage had worsened to the extent that the department’s engineering division determined that its structural integrity had been compromised. Simple repairs were no longer possible and the shelter had to be completely rebuilt.