Protests over rezoning waterfront must be lawful

Society for Protection of the Harbour is very concerned over the reports about four protesters who broke into the Central Barracks of the People's Liberation Army to protest against a prime harbourfront site being rezoned from public open space to exclusive military use. Such radical action is not supported and strongly discouraged by our society.

Since the founding of our society in 1995, we have always insisted that any action taken must be "lawful, reasonable and dignified". Thus, we hope to receive the support of most if not all of the right-thinking members, institutions and organisations of the Hong Kong community.

We are taking the same approach in our present objection to the Town Planning Board rezoning this vital piece of land on the Central harbourfront from public open space to exclusive military use. We are insisting that rezoning must be lawful and reasonable.

Over 19,000 public objections were lodged with the Town Planning Board which has been conducting objection hearings over the past month. The decision will be announced shortly.

The objectors should be complimented as it takes some courage to stand up and oppose the present rezoning.

However, it is necessary and important to convey the message that the rule of law must be complied with and that the government cannot simply ignore the interests and wishes of Hong Kong people.

Our society hopes the board will observe Section 3(1)(a) of the Town Planning Ordinance which requires it to act in accordance with "the health, safety, convenience and general welfare of the community".

Furthermore, on such an important issue, the chief executive of Hong Kong must demonstrate great wisdom, sincerity and diplomacy and not merely bow to political expediency.

Hardy K. C. Lok, chairman, Society for Protection of the Harbour