URA Commences Two Redevelopment Projects in To Kwa Wan

The Urban Renewal Authority (URA) has commenced the statutory planning procedures for two redevelopment projects in To Kwa Wan, including Ming Lun Street/Ma Tau Kok Road Development Scheme (KC-018) and To Kwa Wan Road/Ma Tau Kok Road Development Scheme (KC-019). A holistic scheme, based on a “planning-led, district-based” urban renewal approach, will be formulated to restructure and replan the land uses of the area to improve the living environment of the residents.

KC-018, also known as 5 Streets, covers buildings of about 110 street numbers. Occupied by around 1,400 families and 100 ground-floor shops, these eight-storey buildings are about 60 years old and in dilapidated conditions. KC-019 covers the redevelopment of two industrial buildings. According to the relevant statutory plan, the area has been zoned for comprehensive redevelopment for residential and commercial uses with the provision of a waterfront promenade and other supporting facilities.

As the project sites are strategically located at the harbourfront area, the URA has incorporated the Government’s visions of enhancing the city’s harbourfront environment in its comprehensive study. A portion of the new buildings after redevelopment will be set back from the waterfront to create space for a promenade of about 20 metres wide. It will connect with the facilities in the Kai Tak Development Area, including the Kai Tak Sports Park.

In addition, an at-grade waterfront plaza between the residential blocks and the commercial podium will be provided. It will enhance walkability between To Kwa Wan Road and the waterfront promenade as well as to provide spaces for on-street dining and shops, creating a pleasant atmosphere for the public.

Besides, the buildings facing To Kwa Wan Road will be set back upon completion of the projects to provide sufficient space to widen To Kwa Wan Road from four lanes to six, enhancing the accessibility with the Kai Tak Development Area.

The URA is currently reviewing the policies for the acquisition of property interest of industrial units for KC-019. A new initiative being explored is to allow owners who own not less than a prescribed number of properties in the project area and satisfy other criteria specified by the URA to participate in the development, instead of receiving pecuniary compensation by selling their properties.

This initiative aims to facilitate the acquisition arrangements for KC-019 so as to expedite the redevelopment of the industrial buildings under a holistic master layout plan with KC-018 for more planning benefits.

The URA will start the acquisition of property interests and make compensation/rehousing offers to eligible tenants when the approval to implement KC-018 and KC-019 is granted by the Chief Executive in Council. —Construction+ Online

Source: Urban Renewal Authority