Revised New Territories plan set for June

Ratio of public housing will be over 50%.

According to a release, Secretary for Development Paul Chan said he expects a revised plan for the North East New Territories New Development Area will be launched in June, adding the public housing ratio will be increased.

Speaking on a radio programme, Mr Chan said the Government will consider the new development area in the overall interest of Hong Kong, saying the Administration has tried its best to refine the proposal to meet public aspirations, and the ratio of public housing in the area will be more than 50%.

To increase land supply, he said the Government plans to start reclamation in North Lantau, Tuen Mun and Ma Liu Shui within this term of the Government. He said they will keep the impact on marine ecology to a minimum and protect the Chinese White Dolphin. A proposed artificial island is expected to be completed after 2030 and a public consultation on it will begin before March, he said.

The Government is certain that about 128,000 units can be provided before 2020, Mr Chan said, adding the Town Planning Board has approved 55 planning applications for residential use and more projects are in the pipeline.

There are more than 200 civil-servant co-operatives in Hong Kong and the Urban Renewal Authority will first handle the old, delapidated buildings first, if a redevelopment plan goes ahead, he said. The Government will consider the issue after an in-depth study of the situation.

After the programme, Mr Chan said he understands Hong Kong people have certain expectations concerning Principal Officials' conduct, and he will stay alert and vigilant.

He agrees people should not drive after drinking, and he will be more careful in the future.