DEVB seeks proposals for new eco-tourism dev't projects

These projects align with the chief executive’s 2024 policy to boost island and coastal tourism.

The Development Bureau (DEVB) invites the market to submit expressions of interest (EOIs) for three new eco-tourism development projects.

The proposals involve transforming the ex-Lamma quarry site into a resort and outdoor recreational hub, developing Cheung Sha, Pui O, Shui Hau, and Shek Pik into the South Lantau Eco-Recreation Corridor, and establishing eco-tourism attractions at Tsim Bei Tsui and Pak Nai.

This initiative follows the Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address, which emphasised boosting island and coastal tourism in Hong Kong. In response, the DEVB has been working on the land use and project planning for these three large-scale land disposal projects.

This is the first time in recent years that the government has launched large-scale land disposal for the building of new tourism and recreation areas, with a focus on leveraging corporate participation and market dynamics.

The projects aim to harness the natural resources and rural landscapes of coastal and island locations, fostering public-private collaboration to enhance tourism and leisure offerings.

The DEVB added that it is launching the three EOIs before starting any statutory planning process. This approach is intended to gather industry insights early on, helping shape development parameters and implementation strategies for integration into land use plans and tender documents.

The bureau believes that this process would help ensure the ultimate development schemes are more attuned to market interests and considerations.

Given the varied scale, objectives, and timelines of the three projects, the bureau is also open to exploring alternative implementation methods that could expedite progress.

Interested parties must submit their EOIs by noon on 2 July. Briefing sessions on the invitations will be held on 14 April.