First prefab homes by 2020

Trials of the first prefabricated modular housing in the city could be built at the Science and Technology Park and the University of Hong Kong (HKU), as reported by The Standard.

This follows the Hong Kong Council for Social Service’s announcement that it is looking into the feasibility of building container homes for grassroots families.

The “InnoCell” project will employ modular construction technology to provide housing for the staff at Science Park, said Secretary for Development Michael Wong Wai-lun. Construction of an 18-story building, with amenities such as a gym and multifunction rooms, is expected to be completed by 2020.

Another project, to be built at HKU in Pok Fu Lam, may include student halls, he added.

Last month, Wong visited a mainland factory that produces modular housing components, and the SAR government appears eager to import the technology to provide a safer and faster alternative to traditional methods of building houses.

“If civic groups wish to test these more innovative methods, the government should not eliminate these possibilities or be an obstacle,” he said.

The Housing Department is already preparing guidelines and practice notes governing modular construction for the construction industry, and the Architectural Services Department will issue permits in a reasonably simple and speedy manner, Wong said. — Construction+ Online