Details of pedestrian scheme released

Updated at 6.05pm: Details of the controversial pedestrian scheme planned for Central were released at a press conference on Thursday morning.

The Transport Department suggested reducing traffic in eight streets in Central to enhance pedestrian mobility, safety and improve air quality.

The changes would focus on busy traffic in Queen's Road Central, the department said.

Under its proposals, all vehicles would be banned from going through Queens' Road Central, Theatre Lane and Chiu Lung Street.

D'Aguilar Street, Wo On Lane, Lan Kwai Fong, and the so-called SoHo restaurant district, Peel and Elgin Streets would be turned into part-time pedestrian streets from 7pm to midnight. The footpath of Des Voeux Road Central, Queen Victoria Street, Jubilee Street and D'Aguilar Street would also be widened.

Assistant Commissioner for Transport Ching Kam-man said there were about 650 vehicles passing through Queen's Road Central during the peak hour. ''About 200 to 300 vehicles would go through other roads such as Pedder Street, Wellington Street after the move,'' he said.

Mr Ching said the Government would consult the public about the proposal. If it won their support, the plan's first stage would be implemented in 2003. He expected it would be completed by 2005.

Democratic Party district councillor Kam Nai-wai questioned whether the scheme would improve congestion and air pollution.

He suggested the Government should reduce the number of vehicles coming into Central instead of switching the problem from one street to the other.

Mr Kam also opposed converting the SoHo restaurant district into a part-time pedestrian area. ''The district is a residential area. Many residents worry there will be even more disturbance and nuisance,'' he added.

He said carparks and commercial building managers were worried traffic jams might be worse under the proposal.

Restaurant and shop owners in SoHo did not oppose the plan, said Kim Minards, general manager of Staunton's Winebar and Cafe.

He said the plan would increase business, ''It's great. I hope the whole SoHo area, including Staunton Street will also be made into pedestrian area at the weekend.''

Cheung Chi, owner Lee Fung China Ware, in SoHo, said the pedestrian scheme would not have a detrimental effect on his business.