Action Minutes of the 6th Meeting of the Planning, Works and Housing Committee Eastern District Council

Date: 29 November 2016 (Tuesday) Time: 2:30pm Venue: Eastern District Council Conference Room

Present Time of Arrival Time of Departure (pm) (pm) Mr TING Kong-ho, Eddie 2:30 end of meeting Mr WONG Chi-chung, Dominic 2:30 end of meeting Mr WONG Chun-sing, Patrick 5:30 end of meeting Mr WONG Kwok-hing, BBS, MH 2:30 4:15 Mr KU Kwai-yiu 2:30 end of meeting Mr HO Ngai-kam, Stanley 2:30 end of meeting Ms LI Chun-chau 2:30 end of meeting Mr LEE Chun-keung 2:30 end of meeting Mr LAM Sum-lim 2:32 end of meeting Mr LAM Kei-tung, George 2:30 end of meeting Ms LAM Chui-lin, Alice, MH 2:35 5:35 Mr SHIU Ka-fai 2:30 end of meeting Mr HUNG Lin-cham 2:30 6:00 Mr CHUI Chi-kin 2:30 5:50 Mr CHEUNG Kwok-cheong, Howard 2:32 6:45 Mr LEUNG Siu-sun, Patrick 2:35 6:35 Mr LEUNG Kwok-hung, David 2:30 end of meeting (Chairman) Mr HUI Lam-hing 2:30 5:00 Mr KWOK Wai-keung, Aron 2:30 5:50 Mr MAK Tak-ching 2:35 5:43 Mr WONG Kin-pan, BBS, MH, JP 2:30 end of meeting Mr WONG Kin-hing 2:30 5:30 Mr YEUNG Sze-chun 2:30 end of meeting Mr CHIU Ka-yin, Andrew 2:30 5:50 Mr CHIU Chi-keung 2:30 end of meeting Mr LAU Hing-yeung 2:30 end of meeting Ms CHOY So-yuk, BBS, JP 2:30 5:00 Mr CHENG Chi-sing 2:30 end of meeting (Vice-Chairman)

1 Action Mr CHENG Tat-hung 2:38 4:55 Mr LAI Chi-keong, Joseph 2:30 end of meeting Mr NGAN Chun-lim, MH 2:30 end of meeting Mr LO Wing-kwan, Frankie, 2:30 end of meeting MH Mr KUNG Pak-cheung, MH 2:30 end of meeting Mr KONG Chak-ho, Alex, MH 2:30 4:20 (Co-opt member)

Absent with Apologies

Ms LEUNG Wing-man, Bonnie Ms KONG Yuk-foon, Doreen (Co-opt member)

In Regular Attendance (Government Representatives)

Mr LAI Ho-chun, Assistant District Officer (Eastern) (2), Samuel Eastern District Office Ms WONG Sze-man, Senior Liaison Officer (2), Queenie Eastern District Office Mr LAM Chun-tak Senior Engineer 2 (Hong Kong Island Division 1), Civil Engineering and Development Department Ms LAI Wai-shan, Senior Town Planner/Hong Kong (2), Irene Planning Department Ms HO Mun-yee, Senior Estate Surveyor/Hong Kong East(3), Money District Lands Office (Hong Kong East) Mr WONG Wai-leung Chief Health Inspector 1, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department Miss CHAN Wai-lin, Senior Housing Manager/Hong Kong Island and Rose Islands, Housing Department Mr NG Wai-yin Maintenance Surveyor/Hong Kong East, Housing Department Ms CHAN Yuen-kwan, Building Surveyor/B-BC2, Cindy Buildings Department Miss WAH Pui-yee, Senior Executive Officer (District Council), Vivian Eastern District Office Ms LEE Shuk-han, Executive Officer I (District Council)2, Phoebe (Secretary) Eastern District Office

2 Action In Attendance by Invitation (Representatives from the Government and Organisations)

Mr MAK Chi-biu Chief Engineer/Hong Kong(1), Civil Engineering and Development Department Mr Charles LUK Executive Director, AECOM Asia Company Limited Mr Simon WONG Executive Director, AECOM Asia Company Limited Mr Jimmy LAU Director, AECOM Asia Company Limited Mr LEE Hau-pan Director, ADO Limited Mr CHIU Yu-fu Chief Technical Officer/ East, Highways Department Mr HUI Wing-tak District Engineer/ North East, Kenneth Highways Department Mr AU Wang-tat, Engineer/ Eastern 3, Raymond Drainage Services Department Mr CHAN Kai-hong Senior Maintenance Surveyor/Kowloon West and Sai Kung, Housing Department Mr LI Kwong-ho, John Chief Engineer/Hong Kong and Islands, Drainage Services Department Mr LO Sai-cheong, Senior Engineer/ Eastern, Michael Drainage Services Department Mr POON Sui-shun, Senior Engineer/ Drainage System Planning, Jimmy Drainage Services Department Mr CHUNG Tat-kong Chief Engineer/Hong Kong and Islands, Water Supplies Department Mr CHO Man-kin Chief Engineer/Hong Kong(Headworks 1), Water Supplies Department Mr YAN Ki-kit Acting Senior Engineer/ Eastern and Southern Hong Kong, Highways Department Mr LO Wai-pan, Eddie Senior Executive Officer (Planning)5, Leisure and Cultural Services Department Mr WONG Ka-wing Senior Divisional Officer (Planning Group), Fire Services Department Mr NG Ling-jim Superintendent (Resources Management),

3 Action Fire Services Department Mr WONG Ho-man Senior Station Officer (Planning Group)3, Fire Services Department Miss YIP Sin-man Senior Town Planner, Urbis Limited

Opening Remarks

The Chairman welcomed all Members and representatives from the Government and organisations to the meeting.

I. Confirmation of the Draft Minutes of the 5th Meeting of PWHC

2. The Committee confirmed the above draft minutes without any amendments.

II. Boardwalk Underneath Island Eastern Corridor Investigation Study - Stage 2 Community Engagement (PWHC Paper No. 33/16)

2. The Chairman welcomed Mr MAK Chi-biu, Chief Engineer/Hong Kong(1), and Mr LAM Chun-tak, Senior Engineer 2 (Hong Kong Island Division 1) of the Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD); Mr Charles LUK, Executive Director, Mr Simon WONG, Executive Director, and Mr Jimmy LAU, Director of the AECOM Asia Company Limited (AECOM); and Mr LEE Hau-pan, Director of the ADO Limited to the meeting. Mr MAK Chi-biu and Mr LAM Chun-tak of the CEDD, Mr Jimmy LAU of the AECOM and Mr LEE Hau-pan of the ADO Limited introduced PWHC Paper No. 33/16.

5. The views and queries of 26 Members about the issue are summarised as follows:

(a) Mr CHENG Tat-hung was pleased to see that the CEDD consulted the District Council again within a short period of time. He welcomed the CEDD’s simple design and asked the CEDD to briefly explain the difference of the latest design from the one in the first stage. In addition, he enquired about the estimated cost for the entire project, and asked whether the CEDD would offer various work proposals for

4 Action consideration, as well as the reasons for building a connection point at Wharf Road. Separately, he suggested that the CEDD could consider building a new connection point next to the existing church at City Garden to facilitate citizens’ access to the boardwalk.

(b) Mr Frankie LO said that the boardwalk was intricately designed, and the CEDD had revised and adjusted the proposal based on opinions from members of the public, so the proposal should be supported. However, he hoped that the CEDD could adopt special measures safeguarding users of the cycling track and fishing zone.

(c) Mr Alex KONG voiced concern over the connectivity between the boardwalk and the North Point - Shau Kei Wan harbourfront development in the future, and hoped that the CEDD could provide relevant information. Moreover, he urged the CEDD to give an account of the reclamation scale as stated in the proposal. Furthermore, he asked if the CEDD had plans to enhance the North Point Ferry Pier so as to provide more public space.

(d) Mr NGAN Chun-lim was content with the boardwalk design, but concerned about the its safety including its bearing capacity, emergency response measures, pedestrian flow arrangements and so on, and hoped that the CEDD could provide relevant information.

(e) Mr KUNG Pak-cheung supported the design concept of the boardwalk, but held reservation about the facilities of the cycling track. As the boardwalk was only ten metres wide, he was worried that the benches in the middle could not effectively segregate pedestrians and bicycles, which may put pedestrians in danger. To keep the proposal open for changes, he advised the CEDD to exercise flexibility for designing the boardwalk and the cycling track, so that the uses could be conveniently changed later when necessary. He also asked the CEDD to pay attention to the management arrangements in the future in order to avoid confusion.

(f) Mr Andrew CHIU indicated that he had worked with landscape architects to promote harbourfront development, and supported building a boardwalk to increase the harbourfront connectivity of Hong Kong Island, with a view to providing more public space. For sufficient bearing capacity of the structure, he agreed to build piles and believed that the reclamation work had an overriding public need. In

5 Action addition, he applauded the CEDD’s dedication in enhancing community engagement, and suggested that the CEDD could organise more workshops in the second stage so that citizens could voice their views easily, and develop a sense of involvement. To promote healthy living policies and respond to the questionnaire results, he supported building a cycling track. However, the CEDD should pay attention to the future management works and appropriately segregate pedestrians and cyclists. He urged the CEDD to learn from the design experience of selecting boardwalk materials for Quarry Bay Promenade, and carefully choose appropriate materials in order to reduce the maintenance cost in the future.

(g) Mr MAK Tak-ching was worried that the CEDD could not establish an overriding public need, which might raise citizens’ doubts so much so that they would overthrow the work proposal via legal procedures, thereby resulting in wastage of public resources. To protect the interests, he suggested that the CEDD could revitalise North Point Ferry Pier, and connect it directly to Tong Shui Road fishing zone, with a view to reducing reclamation need and preserving the collective memory of North Point Ferry Pier for the general public. He also suggested that the CEDD could refer to the cycling track and bicycle rental operation in West Kowloon Waterfront Promenade.

(h) Mr Aron KWOK said that the boardwalk conceptualisation and development proposal were under discussion for a long time, but the works had not been confirmed yet. He was worried that the multiple design concepts and proposals currently put forward would affect the feasibility and overall progress of the works. He advised the CEDD to carry out simpler works such as beautification of the space underneath Island Eastern Corridor, construction of connection points and so on, so that the works could commence in phases. In addition, he hoped that the CEDD could offer the proposed work schedule and explain how to specifically execute the proposal.

(i) Mr George LAM supported building the boardwalk, and asked the CEDD to pay special attention to the environmental hygiene of the fishing zone, handling of fish catch and food safety.

(j) Mr LAM Sum-lim supported building the boardwalk, but he was worried that the CEDD could not establish an overriding public need and carry out the proposal as scheduled. Separately, he asked the CEDD the location and sewage discharge of the restroom facilities.

6 Action

(k) Ms Alice LAM thanked the CEDD for enhancing the boardwalk design and increasing its connectivity. She suggested that the CEDD could set up automated bicycle rental service in order to deter citizens from accessing the boardwalk with private bicycles and to ensure road safety. She also reminded the CEDD to pay special attention to the management of artistic installations on the boardwalk, including daily cleaning, repairs and maintenance and so on. She also believed it was necessary for the CEDD to provide restroom facilities. She advised the CEDD to consider in detail the arrangement of ambulance facilities in the future.

(l) Mr HUNG Lin-cham concurred that it was necessary to build the boardwalk and asked the CEDD to ensure that the works were in compliance with the legal requirements, so as to prevent work delays. He hoped that the CEDD could build additional connection points at City Garden so as to increase the accessibility of the harbourfront. Furthermore, he supported adding a cycling track and suggested a detailed discussion of its practical operation in the future. He was concerned about the work schedule, and asked the CEDD the expected completion date of the works.

(m) Mr CHUI Chi-kin supported the boardwalk proposal. He continued to say that Hong Kong Island lacked a cycling track, and citizens riding a bicycle on road could easily meet with accidents. To respond to public views, he supported building a cycling track on the boardwalk. Separately, he asked the development plan of the North Point (Fire Services Department) Pier, the feasibility of reclamation under the current ordinances, and if cyclists needed to dismount on the footpath section.

(n) Mr Howard CHEUNG asked if the same materials were used for the footpath section and the cycling track of the boardwalk, as he was afraid that it could lead to confusion, thereby causing pedestrian-cyclists collision. He also wanted to learn the opposing views and reasons behind as collected by CEDD in the first stage. Furthermore, he hoped that the CEDD could set up a social media webpage so as to canvass public opinions via the online platform in a more comprehensive manner.

(o) Mr Patrick LEUNG welcomed that the CEDD had incorporated the

7 Action views received in public consultation, and adopted a simple and beautiful design. To enhance the harbourfront connectivity, he advised the CEDD to add a connection point at North Point Ferry Pier. He also asked the planned width and traffic direction of the cycling track, and hoped that the department(s) concerned could monitor the use of the cycling track in an effective manner, and formulate measures to manage the bicycle flows and maintain order in the future. Separately, he asked the CEDD the procedures and timetable to establish an overriding public need.

(p) Ms CHOY So-yuk said that the discussion of the boardwalk proposal was opened up more than ten years ago, and was pleased to see the preliminary progress of the proposal. To facilitate pedestrian access to the boardwalk and provide emergency evacuation exit when necessary, she suggested that the CEDD could add more connection points. Even if the ownership issue could not be resolved in the current phase, the CEDD should still reserve space for future development.

(q) Ms LI Chun-chau supported building the boardwalk and hoped that the CEDD could implement the work proposal soon, so that citizens and tourists could enjoy the harbourfront earlier. She found the boardwalk design aesthetically pleasing, but she was worried that the water playground might be suspended in case of an accident in the future, which would render the overall appeal and operational effectiveness unsatisfactory. Furthermore, she supported building a cycling track so as to offer more recreational facilities for the harbourfront.

(r) Mr Stanley HO was satisfied with the overall design. To prevent the rising work cost or other unforeseen factors delaying or suspending the works in the future, he hoped that the CEDD could implement the proposal in phases to fulfil public expectation.

(s) Mr KU Kwai-yiu said that the District Council had taken part in discussion of the boardwalk for many years, and was glad to see that the CEDD was carrying out consultation. He supported building a cycling track, but hoped that the CEDD could install footpath segregating facilities, with a view to safeguarding boardwalk users. Moreover, the water playground could easily pose a danger to children, and could not tie in with the overall design and use of the boardwalk,

8 Action so he opposed to building the water playground. He hoped that the harbourfront development could connect Eastern District and Western District of Hong Kong Island in the future. Separately, he asked the application criteria and procedures for ships to use the North Point Vehicular Ferry Pier.

(t) Mr WONG Kwok-hing said that the proposal came up for discussion for more than twenty years, and hoped that the CEDD could formulate a work schedule and implement the works in phases by starting on easier works. In addition, he opined that the CEDD should provide facilities such as emergency telephone stations, ambulance equipment, restroom facilities and so on in order to cater to public needs.

(u) Mr Dominic WONG said that the boardwalk proposal was under discussion for a long time and many citizens were eagerly waiting for it. He hoped that the CEDD could accord the highest priority to safety and provide facilities in line with citizens’ demands. Separately, he asked if the work proposal met the legal requirements.

(v) Mr Eddie TING supported the boardwalk proposal and hoped that the CEDD could implement the works soon. He supported the CEDD for building a cycling track and asked the CEDD to pay attention to the safety issues. Moreover, he asked the CEDD to take into account the water pollution in the neighbourhood of Hoi Yue Street so that it would not deter citizens from using harbourfront facilities. In the long run, he hoped that the CEDD could enhance harbourfront connectivity of the Eastern District and set up a harbourfront promenade directly connecting to Siu Sai Wan.

(w) Mr WONG Kin-pan supported the boardwalk design and hoped that the CEDD could implement the works soon. He asked the CEDD to take note of cycling track and fishing zone safety, regulate the traffic direction, and only allow anglers with permission to enter into the fishing zone. He also asked the CEDD to account for the contingency procedures of emergency ambulance services and the berthing places of the emergency vehicles.

(x) Mr CHIU Chi-keung said that the proposal was being discussed for a long time. To avoid further delays, he hoped that the CEDD could implement the work proposal in phases by starting on less

9 Action controversial works so that citizens could enjoy the facilities sooner. He also advised the CEDD to add more connection points for regulating pedestrian flows in case of emergency.

(y) Mr YEUNG Sze-chun supported the boardwalk proposal. Citing Quarry Bay Promenade as an example, he said that the wooden boardwalk was damaged easily and took quite some time to repair. He hoped that the CEDD could pay more attention to the selection of materials. He also asked the measure for segregating pedestrians and cyclists, and the operation of the bicycle rental booths.

(z) The Vice-chairman agreed that the CEDD should pay attention to the emergency ambulance arrangements. He expected that the cycling track would be highly utilised in weekends, but since it was quite narrow, he recommended that the CEDD should refer to the Tolo Harbour cycling track by setting up a small ambulance depot next to the boardwalk so as to facilitate immediate rescue works when necessary.

3. Mr MAK Chi-biu of the CEDD responded to the views and queries of Members as follows:

(a) The public views canvassed in Stage 1 Community Engagement by the CEDD would help establish an overriding public need to build the boardwalk in compliance with the requirements of the Protection of the Harbour Ordinance. Besides members of the public, the CEDD had also solicited support from some harbour protection interest groups. The CEDD would prepare “cogent and convincing materials” in the next stage so as to formulate an appropriate proposal for the boardwalk and ensure the works’ compliance with the requirements of the Protection of the Harbour Ordinance. It was expected that the advanced design work could commence in 2018 the soonest and funds would be subsequently applied. Hopefully the works could be implemented as soon as possible and completed several years later.

(b) If the suggestions about the cycling track and fishing zone were endorsed, the CEDD would refer to the experience of operating and managing other cycling tracks and fishing zones across the territory, and stipulate the use terms and conditions. The CEDD would also

10 Action learn from the experience of operating other bicycle rental booths so as to explore the introduction of smart bicycle rental facilities.

(c) The CEDD attached great importance to the safety of boardwalk users, and would further enhance and perfect the structural design of the boardwalk in the advanced design and implementation stages, such as the demand and facilities of segregating cyclists and pedestrians, landscape and architectural design for other facilities and so on. The CEDD would also carefully select the suitable materials so as to ensure the quality of the boardwalk. The planned water playground only had mist-generating devices to create a relaxing atmosphere without posing a danger to users.

(d) To increase the connectivity between the boardwalk and the hinterland, the CEDD would add a connection point plying between the boardwalk and the existing waterfront open space at Provident Garden. As that section of Provident Garden was privately owned, the connection point there only catered for emergency use. The CEDD would also investigate the feasibility of adding an ambulance depot, and was searching for suitable locations.

(e) The CEDD had set up specific webpages and social media links, and printed advertising leaflets and posters to increase the promotional effect. The CEDD welcomed all Members and the general public to participate in the Stage 2 Community Engagement Programme.

(f) The boardwalk proposal was a part of the Hong Kong Island East Harbourfront Study. The Government would continue to carry out long-term harbourfront developments.

4. The Chairman concluded by asking Members to actively participate in the aforementioned activities.

III. Request to Improve the Drainage System of the Holy Cross Path, Sai Wan Ho Street (PWHC Paper No. 34/16)

5. The Chairman welcomed Mr CHIU Yu-fu, Chief Technical Officer/ East and Mr HUI Wing-tak Kenneth, District Engineer/ North East of the Highways

11 Action Department (HyD); Mr WONG Wai-leung, Chief Health Inspector 1 of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD); Mr Raymond AU, Engineer/ Eastern 3 of the Drainage Services Department (DSD) and Ms Cindy CHAN, Building Surveyor/ B-BC2 of the Buildings Department to the meeting. Mr HUI Lam-hing introduced PWHC Paper No. 34/16.

6. The views and queries of 5 Members about the issue are summarised as follows:

(a) Mr HUI Lam-hing asked the HyD about the planned spots for building the covered channels.

(b) Mr Alex KONG said that the section of the footpath was particularly crowded during holidays, and water was often accumulated under rainstorm due to unsatisfactory pavement design. He advised the department(s) concerned to work on the gradient of the pavement and clear sundries from the channels so that rainwater could be diverted away via the channels.

(c) Mr Stanley HO asked the department(s) concerned to point out the work locations and submit the design images of the channel covers. He indicated that some channel covers were so badly designed ladies in high heels easily tripped over and fell. He asked the department(s) concerned to pay attention to the design of channel covers so as to avoid affecting pedestrians’ safety.

(d) Mr Aron KWOK was pleased to see that the department(s) concerned had built more channels in response to Members’ requests, and opined that the works could help solve the problem. He, however, would like the department(s) concerned to explain the reasons behind water stagnation, and to try tackling the problem at its root.

(e) Mr CHIU Chi-keung supported the work plan, and hoped that the department(s) concerned could solve the problem as soon as possible. He also advised the department(s) concerned to enhance the cover design to protect pedestrians’ safety. In addition, he pointed out that some staff of the service contractors always swept tree leaves and garbage into the channels, thereby causing blockage of outfalls. He urged the department(s) concerned to enhance the monitoring of the contractors’ performance. He also asked if the structure and drainage

12 Action installations of the newly renovated church were in line with the Buildings Department’s standards.

6. Mr CHIU Yu-fu of the HyD, Mr WONG Wai-leung of the FEHD, Mr Raymond AU of the DSD and Ms Cindy CHAN of the Buildings Department responded to the views and queries of Members as follows:

HyD

(a) The HyD would install covered channels in the spots as proposed in the Paper to facilitate rainwater diversion.

(b) The HyD found that that rainwater would be drained from the Holy Cross Catholic Church to outside the gate of Tung Yan Court, which caused water accumulation at the footpath. The situation was beyond the expectation of the HyD.

(c) The HyD would select suitable covers to ensure effective rainwater diversion and pedestrians’ safety.

(d) The HyD would enhance the pavement drainage capacity based on its road conditions in order to avoid water stagnation.

FEHD

(e) The FEHD had arranged the staff of the service contractors to clear objects such as dry leaves, sand and stones and so on from the aforementioned sites on a weekly basis. The FEHD noted Members’ views and would strengthen the monitoring of the contractors’ performance.

DSD

(f) The DSD would continue to inspect the underground drainage system at the aforementioned site to ascertain its normal operation.

Buildings Department

(g) The Buildings Department would submit supplementary information after the meeting, and account for whether the structure and drainage

13 Action installations of the newly renovated church fulfilled the standards of the Buildings Department.

Buildings 7. The Chairman concluded by asking the Buildings Department to submit Department supplementary information in response to Members’ queries.

(Post-meeting remarks: The supplementary information of the Buildings Department was submitted on 13 March 2017 for Members’ reference.)

IV. Enquiry about Asbestos Contamination in Hing Wah (II) Estate (PWHC Paper No. 35/16)

8. The Chairman welcomed Miss Rose CHAN, Senior Housing Manager/Hong Kong Island and Islands, and Mr NG Wai-yin, Maintenance Surveyor/Hong Kong East, and Mr CHAN Kai-hong, Senior Maintenance Surveyor/Kowloon West and Sai Kung of the Housing Department to the meeting. Mr Joseph LAI introduced PWHC Paper No. 35/16.

9. Member declared interests related to the aforementioned agenda item as follows:

Member Interests Declared Ms Alice LAM Member of the Building Committee, Hong Kong Housing Authority

7. The views and queries of 6 Members about the issue are summarised as follows:

(a) Mr KU Kwai-yiu indicated that Chai Wan Estate was previously contaminated by asbestos, so he was pleased that the Housing Department had decided to demolish and redevelop the impacted buildings. He pointed out that white asbestos severely affected human’s health and hoped that the Housing Department would adopt appropriate measures to protect tenants’ safety and arrange free physical examinations for tenants to ensure that they were in good health. Although the Housing Department had appointed asbestos managers to take charge of relevant matters, he hoped that the Housing Department could recognise the hazardous effects of asbestos and take

14 Action suitable preventive measures.

(b) Mr CHUI Chi-kin said that white asbestos was medically proven to be a cancer-inducing substance and harmful to human’s body. Although the Housing Department had encapsulated asbestos fibres, he hoped that the department could consider removing all asbestos containing materials (ACM). Moreover, as the asbestos-related diseases usually had a long incubation period, he suggested that the Housing Department could, on compassionate grounds, exempt tenants from the requirement of submitting medical proof and arrange relocation for tenants in need of help as soon as possible. He subsequently asked the Housing Department about the details of unit inspections every half a year, and was worried that the Housing Department would pose a nuisance to tenants so much so that they would turn down the inspections.

(c) Mr MAK Tak-ching asked if the Housing Department would post signage on the location of ACM as a warning.

(d) Mr KUNG Pak-cheung said that ACM were widely popular in the construction sector, but the health threats were rarely known in earlier years. He agreed that the Housing Department’s current measures could effectively reduce the hazardous impacts of asbestos on tenants’ health, but in the long run the Housing Department should remove all ACM of the housing estate when all tenants moved out so that the materials would not affect tenants’ health.

(e) Mr Joseph LAI took Long Bin Interim Housing Estate as an example to question the inefficient management of the Housing Department. He hoped that the Housing Department could explain why ACM could still be discovered after such materials were banned. He added that since ACM were identified in some housing estates, the warning signage would only exert psychological pressure on tenants there. He hoped that the Housing Department could exercise discretion when arranging relocation for these tenants based on their individual situations, and try to redevelop the impacted housing estate as soon as possible.

(f) Mr Aron KWOK said that the tenants there had tried to understand the asbestos situation at the residents’ association meetings, and the

15 Action Housing Department had stressed that if the ACM had never been damaged, such materials would not post a health risk to tenants under normal circumstances. Besides regular inspections as well as enhanced trainings and promotion, he suggested that the Housing Department could step up preventive work and boost tenants’ confidence so as to avoid panic. He also urged the Housing Department to explain in detail the scope of responsibility of the asbestos manager system.

10. Miss Rose CHAN of the Housing Department responded to the views and queries of Members as follows:

(a) Before the health threats of ACM were identified, the materials were widely used by the construction industry. Some tenants might unavoidably have mild contact with the ACM. The Housing Department had since then adopted multiple measures to ensure tenants’ safety.

(b) After investigation, the Housing Department found that other than some ACM which were mildly worn or tampered, the rest remained in good condition. For the mildly worn grilles, the Housing Department had handled them in accordance to the suggestions offered by registered asbestos consultants. Moreover, the Housing Department had followed up the condition of balcony grilles inside the housing units, and adopted the registered asbestos consultants’ evaluation and suggestion by removing the asbestos materials and/ or sealing the materials up completely. After the completion of follow-up works, the consultants assured the tenants that they could continue to live there.

(c) The Department of Health pointed out that ACM were not detrimental to health under normal circumstances. The overseas health organisations also opposed to placing tenants under continuous health watch.

(d) Currently most ACM were removed, and the remaining few were mostly seen in old housing estates, such as encapsulated balcony grilles in housing units, staircases and lift lobby grilles, and chimneys. The asbestos fibres inside these materials were bound to cement, plaster or bitumen. Unless the binders were broken into pieces or

16 Action damaged, asbestos fibres were extremely unlikely to be released into the air.

(e) Working together with the Environmental Protection Department and Labour Department, the Housing Department had implemented a set of management strategies which were proven to be effective in handling ACM in public rental housing (PRH) estates.

(f) The Housing Department’s inspections showed that most architectural components were in good condition, and the collected air samples were normal.

(g) The Housing Department had collected air samples in every housing estate built with ACM in the past few months; all air samples fell within the acceptable range. There was no plan to arrange for tenant relocation for now. Under the existing policy, if tenants could no longer live in the current residence owing to social, medical or other reasons, they could apply for relocation. Tenants had to provide adequate evidence and submit relevant proof when necessary, such as medical certificates, recommendation from the Social Welfare Department and so on.

(h) To deepen tenants’ understanding of asbestos and the ACM location in public housing estates, the Housing Department had mailed specific related tenants, placed brochures at the security guards’ stations, posted household suggestions in the lift lobby on the ground floor of various buildings, put up signage at the ACM locations, distributed estate newsletters regularly, managed consultation committee for several housing estates and arranged briefing for District Councillors of the Eastern District and other stakeholders. A record of ACM locations was available at the concerned estate offices as well as on the Housing Authority / Housing Department website.

(i) To further enhance ACM management, the Housing Department had appointed the maintenance surveyor of the district as an “asbestos manager” for relevant housing estates, who would take charge of and coordinate ACM matters. The indoor check-up would also be incorporated in the half-yearly inspection on the condition of housing estates. The Housing Department would also inspect the asbestos condition in regular visits or maintenance examinations if necessary,

17 Action so that tenants would not be constantly disturbed.

(j) The Housing Department would enhance trainings of frontline staff, and their awareness in this aspect. The Housing Department would also increase promotion cautioning tenants against any damage or tampering of the ACM balcony grilles. If any damage of balcony grilles was identified, the Housing Department needed to be notified immediately.

(k) The Housing Department would submit supplementary information explaining why some housing estates still used ACM after the materials were banned.

(l) The Housing Department ought to consider a variety of factors for redevelopment, such as the structural condition of the public housing buildings, cost effectiveness of the maintenance works, whether suitable relocation resources could be found near the redeveloped estates, and whether there were reasonable growth of the PRH units after the redevelopment. At the moment, the Hing Wah (II) Estate did not have any redevelopment plan.

11. Mr Joseph LAI proposed the following motion, which was seconded by Mr CHUI Chi-kin, Mr Andrew CHIU, Mr Patrick LEUNG, Mr Howard CHEUNG, Mr MAK Tak-ching, Mr KU Kwai-yiu, Mr Patrick WONG, Ms Bonnie LEUNG and Mr CHENG Tat-hung:

“The Planning, Works and Housing Committee under the Eastern District Council requests the Housing Department to implement asbestos manager system as soon as possible and eradicate asbestos contamination inflicted upon public housing tenants.”

12. Mr Aron KWOK, Mr CHENG Tat-hung and Ms Alice LAM proposed revised motions separately. After discussion, the Committee endorsed the following revised motion which was proposed by Ms Alice LAM and seconded by Mr LAM Sum-lim:

“The Planning, Works and Housing Committee under the Eastern District Council requests the Housing Department to clarify the situation as regards remaining asbestos in Hing Wah (II) Estate and raise transparency! It also urges the Housing Department to enhance public education and understanding so as to avoid panic and boost public sense of prevention, to

18 Action research on the asbestos manager system and account for daily maintenance on how to prevent asbestos from contaminating the living environment and posing a danger to citizens’ health.”

13. After voting, 25 Members voted in favour of the motion and none opposed or abstained; the motion was carried. As the revised motion was endorsed, the Committee did not need to vote on the original motion.

(Post-meeting remarks: (1) The revised motion was delivered to the Housing Department on 30 November 2016. (2) The supplementary information of the Housing Department was sent to Members for their reference on 13 March 2017.)

V. Request for a Full Review and Improvement of the Underground Drainage System of Eastern District, Safeguarding the Life and Property of Citizens (PWHC Paper No. 36/16)

Urging the Government to Give an Account of the Severe Floods Caused by Heavy Rain in Chai Wan (PWHC Paper No. 37/16)

Requesting the Government to Express Concern about the Damages Caused by Heavy Rain on 19 October 2016 and Develop Flood Prevention Measures (PWHC Paper No. 38/16)

Issues Relating to the Floods at the Roundabout in Chai Wan (PWHC Paper No. 39/16)

14. The Chairman said that as the four aforementioned Papers involved the floods of Chai Wan, the Committee would discuss them together.

15. The Chairman welcomed Mr John LI, Chief Engineer/Hong Kong and Islands, Mr Michael LO, Senior Engineer/ Eastern, Mr Jimmy POON, Senior Engineer/ Drainage System Planning, and Mr Raymond AU, Engineer/ Eastern 3 of the DSD; Mr CHUNG Tat-kong, Chief Engineer/Hong Kong and Islands, Mr CHO Man-kin, Chief Engineer/Hong Kong(Headworks1) of the Water Supplies Department (WSD); Mr CHIU Yu-fu, Chief Technical Officer/ East and Mr YAN Ki-kit, Acting Senior Engineer/ Eastern and Southern Hong Kong of the HyD to

19 Action the meeting. Mr KUNG Pak-cheung, Mr Aron KWOK, Mr CHUI Chi-kin and Mr LEE Chun-keung introduced the Papers separately. Mr John LI of the DSD and Mr CHUNG Tat-kong of the WSD responded to the Papers.

8. The views and queries of 17 Members about the issue are summarised as follows:

(a) Mr LEE Chun-keung hoped that different departments could investigate the reasons behind the flooding case in a serious manner, and, other than weather, whether the negligence of the department(s) concerned to clean the channels also caused the floods this time. Separately, he asked whether the impacted citizens could bring civil claims at the Small Claims Tribunal or other department concerned.

(b) Ms LI Chun-chau commented that the floods had severe consequences, and advised the department(s) concerned to make long-term planning based on population growth and social development, and try to enhance the design of the drainage system. She also pointed out that many front-line staff always swept garbage and dry leaves into channels, so she urged the DSD to enhance cleaning and keep channels clear, with a view to preventing similar incidents.

(c) Mr KU Kwai-yiu said that the department(s) concerned had built a gully at the Chai Wan Road Roundabout several years ago but it failed to handle the floods this time. He continued to point out that the catch-water drain at Fei Tsui Road was often loaded with bulky garbage and construction waste. He hoped that the department(s) concerned could step up inspections and cleaning so that stormwater could be diverted away swiftly.

(d) Mr Dominic WONG thanked the HyD for repairing the worn pavement shortly after the heavy rain and keeping traffic smooth. Separately, he asked the DSD when the Drainage Master Plan Study on Northern Hong Kong Island was expected to be completed, and whether the report would be submitted to the District Council. He also hoped to learn the details of operating the cooperation team formed by the DSD, FEHD and HyD.

(e) Mr LAM Sum-lim said that natural calamities could hardly be predicted. He hoped that the department(s) concerned could

20 Action thoroughly review the existing operation of the drainage system and enhance its flood relieving capacity. In addition, he pointed out that the drains in the neighbourhood of Kam Wa Street were often obstructed by plastic bags or other hard objects, so he advised the department(s) concerned to clear garbage from the channels or expand the outfalls, as well as formulate appropriate measures to prevent sundries from falling into channels and causing blockage.

(f) Mr CHUI Chi-kin said that a number of channels were loaded with garbage, and asked if the department(s) concerned had scheduled regular cleaning. Separately, he asked the department(s) concerned to provide data reflecting the total water carrying capacity of catchment areas on Hong Kong Island, and the number and volume of roadside rainwater gullies. He also asked if the department(s) concerned had amended the gully design and therefore affected its operation. He delivered gratitude to the department(s) concerned for quickly handling the flooding case and hoped that the department(s) concerned could actively discuss the enhancement plan and reduce the frequency of channel blockage, with a view to preventing similar incidents from happening.

(g) Mr Howard CHEUNG was concerned how the Government managed the channels on privately owned land. He also pointed out that the area of Quarry Bay Street was close to the adjoining slope, so the drains were easily blocked by accumulated debris. He hoped that the department(s) concerned would adopt appropriate measures to enhance the drainage system.

(h) Mr LAU Hing-yeung said that the heavy rain this time brought substantial damage. Based on the site inspection, the water level of the reservoir at Fei Tsui Road was very high, which was presumably due to the blockage of the drainage system by sundries and sediment. He also pointed out that the pavement at Wan Tsui Road near Hing Wah Shopping Centre was undergoing repairs. He hoped that the department(s) concerned could adopt appropriate measures to prevent heavy rain from washing away sand and bricks.

(i) Mr Andrew CHIU indicated that, besides Chai Wan, other places in the Eastern District such as Taikoo and Quarry Bay were struck by the floods. He was dissatisfied that the department(s) concerned did not respond to the queries in the Papers in detail, and hoped that the

21 Action department(s) concerned could explain the details of operating various rainwater drainage systems in the Eastern District with diagrams. He also asked to list the agenda item as a follow-up item so that the department(s) concerned could submit supplementary information.

(j) Mr MAK Tak-ching said that many places in the Eastern District were inflicted by floods, and he was worried that the flood-diverting facilities of the entire drainage system could not sustain the rainstorm. He requested the department(s) concerned to clear sundries and garbage from the channels more, and carefully examine the channels’ flood relieving capacity. He advised the DWD to obtain more detail data about weather, climate change and so on from the Hong Kong Observatory so as to enhance the drainage system. Moreover, he enquired whether drainage functions of the channels stayed normal.

(k) Mr Aron KWOK said that the heavy rain brought floods to many places in the Eastern District, which showed that the DSD’s drainage facilities and flood-proof design could not withstand the rainstorm. He hoped that the DSD could clean the drains more, collect flooding data for a more pragmatic estimation, and carry out enhancement measures to improve the anti-flooding standard. He also urged the department(s) concerned to present data for the maximum carrying capacity of the current drainage system.

(l) Mr Joseph LAI said that many citizens complained about a large pile of garbage constantly clogging up Tai Tam catch-water drain, and also its downstream riverbank was rather narrow, which would easily produce bottleneck effect and cause floods. He suggested that the department(s) concerned should review the operation of the drainage system in entirety, and clear rubbish from channels regularly to keep the drainage system smooth. He thanked the frontline staff including those from the DSD for taking charge of the floods and tackling different cases swiftly under inclement weather, and asked the DSD to enhance cooperation with other departments such as the WSD. Furthermore, he found the DSD’s way of handling stagnant water and mud ineffective, and suggested that the DSD could consider the latest technology for higher efficiency.

(m) Mr NGAN Chun-lim hoped that the department(s) concerned could summarise the experience of this flooding case, and adopt appropriate measures to enhance the drainage system, such as more channels as well as higher frequency of cleaning and maintenance, with a view to

22 Action guarding against floods in the future. He also urged the department(s) concerned to explain the reasons behind floods in areas such as Shau Kei Wan and so on, so as to facilitate Councillors’ everyday monitoring.

(n) Mr KUNG Pak-cheung took the landslide incident at Fei Tsui Road in 1996 as an example for comparison, and pointed out that fewer branches were washed off from the trees this time and floodwater receded at a lower speed, thereby causing floods in Chai Wan Road Roundabout. He said that the department(s) concerned should enhance the design of channels and gullies to reduce the risk of flooding. To prevent rainwater from washing the blocks away, the HyD should avoid using Besser blocks in slope areas. Furthermore, he thanked the DSD staff for handling the floods at midnight.

(o) Mr CHIU Chi-keung said that he often found channels loaded with leaves and sundries, and the department(s) concerned only cleared them after multiple complaints. To keep the channels clear and smooth, he believed that different departments including the WSD and DWD should shoulder up their responsibility to clean catch-water drains and manholes more so as to lower the possibility of floods.

(p) Mr YEUNG Sze-chun said that the floods exerted serious impacts and hoped that the department(s) concerned could review the situation as soon as possible and enhance the ageing and incomprehensive drainage system to prevent similar things from happening again. He also pointed out that besides underground channels, the department(s) concerned should clear the garbage and sundries from the surface of the channels to prevent obstruction.

(q) Mr Patrick LEUNG suggested that the DSD should carry out the enhancement measures as soon as possible and raise the anti-flooding capacity of the drainage facilities, with a view to preparing for future rainstorms. He also asked the DSD to give an account of the commencement date and progress of the Drainage Master Plan Study on Northern Hong Kong Island.

16. Mr John LI and Mr Jimmy POON of the DSD, Mr CHUNG Tat-kong of the WSD and Mr CHIU Yu-fu of the HyD responded to the views and queries of Members as follows:

23 Action DSD

(a) The flooding case was caused by a number of factors. Preliminary findings revealed that the obstruction of the upstream channels was attributed to its inadequate flood relieving capacity. Stormwater overflowed along the landscape from Fei Tsui Road and Wan Tsui Road to Chai Wan Road Roundabout, but the inlets and gullies could not divert the stormwater in time, thereby resulting in floods.

(b) The DSD had completed the Drainage Master Plan Study on Northern Hong Kong Island more than one year ago, fully reviewing the rainwater drainage system in the Eastern District, analysing recent flooding cases, and formulating appropriate enhancement measures. Since the total length of the drainage pipes in the Eastern District was 200 kilometres, the study might take longer to review and was expected to be completed in 2018.

(c) The DSD had been carrying out regular inspections and cleaning of drainage facilities, so as to ensure normal operation of channels, inlets, manholes and other facilities. At present, the DSD would enhance inspection of the penstock at Fei Tsui Road before, during and after the rain season three times a year. Moreover, when the rainstorm signal was hoisted, the DSD would deploy staff to inspect inlets in the District and clear garbage so as to ascertain effective operation of the drainage system. Owing to the present incident, the DSD together with other departments concerned such as the FEHD would enhance inspections and cleaning of the rainwater drainage system in the District, with a view to examining and unclogging channels in time and reducing the risk of flooding.

(d) The DSD would relay the views to the HyD, urging the latter to enhance the design of pavements and gullies.

(e) In general, the anti-flooding design of Fei Tsui Road drainage facilities could sustain rainstorms of a 50-year return period. However, if the rainfall amount exceeded the threshold of the Black Rainstorm Signal, its flood relieving capacity would be greatly affected. The DSD would roll out short-term and medium-term emergency flooding mitigation measures so that these sites could quickly return to normal after heavy rainfall.

(f) As Quarry Bay Street was privately owned, the DSD would study how

24 Action to enhance the flood relieving capacity of the low-lying areas on Government land so as to divert the rainwater at the site.

(g) The DSD had carefully examined the underground pipes and low-lying pipes at Fei Tsui Road after the incident, and did not discover any blockage. However, the DSD could not rule out that the said channel was blocked on the day of rainstorm.

(h) The flooding cases in the area of Quarry Bay were mostly attributed to obstruction of inlets and roadside gullies, but the stagnant water had receded after diversion. Shau Kei Wan was a low-lying area so the possibility of floods was higher. As there were dense underground facilities in the area and narrower roads, the DSD found it difficult to carry out improvement measures. The DSD, however, would carefully follow up and research on mitigation strategies.

(i) The DSD could provide channel drawings of the District for Members’ reference.

(j) The DSD had been maintaining a close contact with the Hong Kong Observatory to understand climate change in order to make appropriate adjustments.

(k) During the rain season every year, the DSD would set up a coordination team with the FEHD and HyD to jointly keep the channel inlets smooth and the rainwater drainage system well functioned.

(l) Besides DWD staff, the HyD had also helped clear accumulated water and mud on the night of the incident.

(m) The rainstorm of a 50-year return period referred to hourly rainfall amount of around 130 millimetres. The hourly rainfall amount on 19 October 2016 was around 100 millimetres, which did not exceed the threshold.

(n) The DSD intended to build underground pipes along Fei Tsui Road to enhance the flood relieving capacity of that area. Given the temporary storage sites along Fei Tsui Road, the DSD might requisition that section of land for some enhancement works. The DSD would carry out exploration and commence the enhancement measures where feasible as soon as possible. It was expected that the works could be completed within two or three years.

25 Action

WSD

(o) Typhoons and rainstorms in early August had flushed dry branches and leaves, as well as sand and stones into catch-water drains, causing obstruction of some sections (especially in front of the entrance of Mount Parker lower catch-water drain). The WSD had inspected the site right after receiving complaints from Councillors and several citizens in mid-August, but the weather then was too unstable to carry out cleaning. The WSD had unclogged the blocked section once the weather picked up, and completed the works on 30 August 2017. The WSD later inspected that section of catch-water drain a few days before and after 19 October 2016, and during the period when Black Rainstorm Signal was hoisted, but did not identify any serious blockage except a small amount of sand and stones washed up there. The reason was that the section of catch-water drain was thoroughly cleaned in late August. Minor obstruction would not affect the overall operation of the catch-water drain.

(p) The WSD carried out regular inspections of catch-water drain once a month, and would enhance the frequency in response to this incident (especially before and after rain season, and after rainstorm), and arrange cleaning and maintenance as soon as possible to ensure smooth operation of the catch-water drain.

HyD

(q) The HyD would take appropriate measure to consolidate the pavement blocks of Wan Tsui Road so as to prevent them from being washed away by rain. The HyD would enhance pavement drainage works to avoid similar incidents.

(r) The HyD did not change the width of gullies but would consider increasing the number of drains based on the situation and clear rubbish from drains more to prevent obstruction.

(s) To conveniently clear accumulated water, the HyD first excavated some mud in on the night of the incident in accordance to the established procedures, and did not impair work efficiency.

17. After discussion, the Committee agreed to list the agenda item as a follow-up

26 Action item.

VI. Progress Report of Matters Arising from Previous PWHC Meetings (PWHC Paper No. 40/16)

(i) Request for Provision of Escalators in Braemar Hill Area / Request the Government to Speed Up the Construction of an Escalator to Go Directly to Braemar Hill

18. Members noted the consolidated reply from the HyD and Transport Department.

19. Mr SHIU Ka-fai hoped that the department(s) concerned could prepare for the publication of gazette notice as scheduled, and send representatives to attend the meeting so that they could account for the latest work progress.

Attendees 20. After discussion, the Committee agreed to continue to follow up the agenda item.

(ii) Strong Request for Building a District Library as Soon as Possible Next to Eastern Law Courts Building Scope of Works of the Joint User Complex at Lei King Wan

21. The Chairman welcomed Mr Eddie LO, Senior Executive Officer (Planning) 5 of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) to the meeting. Mr Eddie LO of the LCSD supplemented the latest work progress.

22. Members noted the consolidated reply from the LCSD, Social Welfare Department and Architectural Services Department (ArchSD).

9. The views and queries of 4 Members about the issue are summarised as follows:

(a) Mr NGAN Chun-lim asked the department(s) concerned to ensure that they could introduce the detailed design of the works to the Committee in early 2017.

27 Action (b) Mr YEUNG Sze-chun was concerned about the work progress, and hoped that the department(s) concerned could introduce the detailed design of the works as scheduled and implement the works as soon as possible. He also urged the ArchSD to send representatives to answer Members’ queries.

(c) Mr Howard CHEUNG was dissatisfied that the department(s) concerned was falling behind with work implementation, and suspected that the department(s) concerned offered fraudulent information to deceive citizens.

(d) Mr CHUI Chi-kin expressed worries that the department(s) concerned had revised the design plan once again, and hoped that the department(s) concerned could implement detailed work design and commence the works as soon as possible.

23. Mr Eddie LO of the LCSD replied that the ArchSD was putting forward the design works so that they could introduce the detailed design to the Committee earlier in 2017.

Attendees 24. After discussion, the Committee agreed to continue to follow up the agenda item.

(iii) Request to Construct a Swimming Pool in Quarry Bay Strongly Request the Government to Make Good Use of the Land Resources by Constructing a Standard Indoor Swimming Pool at the Side of Aldrich Garden Construction of an All-weather Indoor Swimming Pool with Greening Concept at the Side of Tung Hei Road, Shau Kei Wan Greening and Resting Facilities next to Tung Hei Road

25. The Chairman welcomed Mr Eddie LO, Senior Executive Officer (Planning)5 of the LCSD, Ms Irene LAI, Senior Town Planner/Hong Kong (2) of the Planning Department, and Ms Money HO, Senior Estate Surveyor/Hong Kong East(3) of the District Lands Office (Hong Kong East) to the meeting.

10. The views and queries of 2 Members about the issue are summarised as follows:

28 Action (a) Mr NGAN Chun-lim asked the department(s) concerned to account for the research progress.

(b) Mr Howard CHEUNG hoped that the department(s) concerned could submit more detailed information for the progress.

26. Mr Eddie LO of the LCSD replied that the LCSD together with relevant departments and bureaux were studying the suggestion of building an additional swimming pool.

Attendees 27. After discussion, the Committee agreed to continue to follow up the agenda item.

(iv) Making a Strong Request to Put the Open Space at the Junction of Siu Sai Wan Road and Harmony Road into Use as Soon as Possible

28. The Chairman welcomed Ms Money HO, Senior Estate Surveyor/Hong Kong East(3) of the District Lands Office (Hong Kong East) to the meeting. Ms Money HO of the District Lands Office supplemented the latest work progress.

29. Members noted the written replies from the FEHD, Social Welfare Department and Planning Department.

30. Mr CHUI Chi-kin was concerned about the project progress, and asked the department (s) concerned to account for the work schedule.

Attendees 31. After discussion, the Committee agreed to continue to follow up the agenda item.

(v) Proposal to Reprovision Chai Wan Ambulance Station and Construct Departmental Quarters at the Junction of Sun Yip Street and Siu Sai Wan Road, Chai Wan

32. The Chairman welcomed Mr WONG Ka-wing, Senior Station Officer (Planning Group)3, Mr NG Ling-jim, Superintendent (Resources Management), Mr WONG Ho-man, Senior Station Officer (Planning Group)3 of the Fire Services Department (FSD); and Miss YIP Sin-man, Senior Town Planner of the Urbis Limited to the meeting.

29 Action 33. Mr WONG Ka-wing of the FSD supplemented the latest work progress as follows:

(a) The FSD thanked Members for supporting the aforementioned proposal, and referred to Members’ views, including the location of emergency vehicular access, emergency sirens or horns and sound relief measures of the ambulance depots, the future arrangement of outdoor warehouse, the arrangement to keep the current Chai Wan Ambulance Station and so on.

(b) The FSD had applied to the Town Planning Board for changes in the planned use of sites in November 2016, and was waiting for the Town Planning Board to consult the public. An approval meeting was temporally scheduled in February 2017.

(c) The ArchSD would conduct technical feasibility studies later, and the FSD would consult relevant Legislative Council committees and apply for funds in accordance to procedures.

11. The views and queries of 2 Members about the issue are summarised as follows:

(d) Mr Dominic WONG spoke on behalf of Ms Alice LAM that she had conducted a site visit with the department(s) concerned and learnt about the actual environment. If the FSD could coordinate with the Transport Department to ensure the road safety of both bounds of Siu Sai Wan Road and facilitate the emergency vehicles leaving the ambulance station, she would hold no objection to the proposal.

(e) Mr KU Kwai-yiu said that citizens also supported the aforementioned proposal, but was worried that the flow of private cars would increase after the establishment of departmental quarters. He urged the department(s) concerned to pay attention to the traffic arrangement of Siu Sai Wan Road and Chai Wan Road so as to avoid traffic congestion.

34. Mr WONG Ka-wing of the FSD responded to the views and queries of Members as follows:

(a) The FSD would build emergency carriageways and gates in Siu Sai

30 Action Wan Road in the future, and use flashing sirens to stop running cars, so as to ascertain road safety and reduce risk of accidents. The FSD would coordinate with the Transport Department to moderately adjust the adjoining traffic lights under emergency situation for cooperation. The FSD would also set day-time and night-time modes for flashing light and sirens to minimise nuisance to residents living in the neighbourhood.

(b) The FSD would closely monitor the impact of the departmental quarters and new flow of private cars on traffic in the neighbourhood.

Attendees 35. After discussion, as the proposal was waiting for further approval of the Town Planning Board, the Committee agreed to follow up the agenda item when progress was reported.

(vi) The Progress of the Planning for the Chai Wan Factory Estate Conversion of Chai Wan Factory Estate to Public Rental Housing Requesting the Housing Department to Explain the Problems in Relation to the Conversion of Chai Wan Factory Estate into Public Rental Housing Flats

36. The Chairman welcomed Miss Rose CHAN, Senior Housing Manager/Hong Kong Island and Islands, and Mr NG Wai-yin, Maintenance Surveyor/Hong Kong East of the Housing Department to the meeting.

37. Miss Rose CHAN of the Housing Department supplemented the latest work progress, and said that the redevelopment plan of Wah Ha Estate was completed. She advised to cancel following up the agenda item.

12. The views and queries of 7 Members about the issue are summarised as follows:

(a) Mr KUNG Pak-cheung said that the housing units of Wah Ha Estate placed a lot of restrictions on grounds of conservation, thereby resulting in a lower occupancy rate. He believed that resources were mismatched and wasted, and he expressed regrets about it.

(b) Mr KU Kwai-yiu asked the Housing Department to provide the latest occupancy rate.

31 Action (c) Mr CHUI Chi-kin enquired the Housing Department why the occupancy rate of shops and residential units of Wah Ha Estate was relatively low. He pointed out that many PRH applicants hoped to move in soon. He urged the Housing Department to expedite flat allocation procedures, and devise better strategies of shop letting to boost the occupancy rate of Wah Ha Estate.

(d) Mr LEE Chun-keung said that the housing units of Wah Ha Estate had plenty of restrictions, which might not be suitable for families with elders and children. However, he had interviewed tenants who had already moved in, and they generally showed satisfaction towards the housing unit, facilities and management. As the redevelopment was completed, he agreed to cancel following up the agenda item.

(e) Mr Dominic WONG said that the geographical location of Wah Ha Estate was superb. For gainful utilisation of resources, he asked the Housing Department whether the housing units would be listed as “unpopular PRH units” so that the units could be allocated as soon as possible.

(f) Mr Joseph LAI said that public housing estates were considered valuable resources, and he asked the Housing Department the reasons why tenants refused to accept the allocated units. He was saddened by the mismatch of resources, and hoped that Members could help advertising and promotion to increase occupancy rate. He hoped that he could continue to follow up the agenda item so as to understand the move-in progress of the housing estate.

(g) Mr SHIU Ka-fai said that the Housing Department should review why the occupancy rate was relatively low, and explain to Members.

38. Miss Rose CHAN of the Housing Department responded to the views and queries of Members as follows:

(a) There were altogether five shops in Wah Ha Estate, one of which was operating and the other was in the process of renovation. The remaining three were still available for letting.

(b) Wah Ha Estate was rated “Grade 2” historic building by the Antiquities Advisory Board. In the process of renovation, the

32 Action Housing Department needed to keep the major architectural features of the building, including the original structure, appearance and partition. To fulfil the existing regulations of Buildings Ordinance and conserve that building, the PRH units of Wah Ha Estate had some renovation restrictions. For example, residents could not erect any partition block wall, board wall or others. Hence, some residents found this arrangement unsuitable and did not accept the allocated units.

(c) Due to the renovation restrictions on the PRH units of Wah Ha Estate, the Housing Department would not count the allocation as one of the three valid allocations. Moreover, the Housing Department would research on how to enhance the allocation procedures to raise the occupancy rate.

(d) “Unpopular PRH units” generally referred to PRH units which were not as popular as the others. For example, some unpleasant incidents happened there or the floor level and orientation were less favourable. As Wah Ha Estate was still in the process of allocation, the Housing Department did not list the units there as “unpopular PRH units”.

Attendees 39. After discussion, the Committee agreed to cancel following up the agenda item.

(Post-meeting remarks: The Housing Department had allocated some units of Wah Ha Estate under “Living Space Improvement Transfer Scheme”, with a view to enhancing the occupancy rate.)

(vii) Motion: Objection to the Removal of Tin Wan Concrete Batching Plant to the Industrial Area of Chai Wan Re: The Removal of Tin Wan Concrete Batching Plant to Factory Building in Chai Wan Area Strongly Object to the Establishment of Concrete Batching Plant in Chai Wan Request Policy Bureaux to Explain whether the Operation of Concrete Batching Plants in Chai Wan is Consistent with the Law

Attendees 40. The agenda item was to be discussed every two meetings, and would be followed up in the 2017 meeting.

33 Action

(viii) Request to Build a Sports Complex at the Open Space Next to Quarry Bay Park Phase II

Attendees 41. The agenda item was to be followed up every half a year, and would be followed up in the 2017 meeting.

(ix) Request to Follow Up the Matters Concerning the Noise Barriers for Blocks 16 and 17 of Heng Fa Chuen Immediately

42. The Committee noted the consolidated reply from the Environmental Protection Department and HyD.

Attendees 43. After discussion, the Committee agreed to continue following up the agenda item when progress was reported.

(x) Request for Installing Automatic Sensors at the Escalators of Public Housing Estates by the Housing Department

Attendees 44. The agenda item would be followed up when work progress was reported.

VII. Date of the Next Meeting

45. The meeting ended at 6:55 pm. The 7th meeting of the PWHC would be held at 2:30 pm on 14 March 2017 (Tuesday).

Eastern District Council Secretariat March 2017

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