The minutes were confirmed on 9.5.2019 without amendment.

Minutes of the Second Meeting of Traffic and Committee under District Council in 2019

Date : 14 March 2019 (Thursday) Time : 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Venue : Conference Room, 13/F., Yuen Long Government Offices, 2 Kiu Lok Square, Yuen Long

Present Time of Arrival Time of Withdrawal

Vice-chairman : Mr MAK Ip-sing Beginning of the meeting End of the meeting Members : Mr CHAM Ka-hung, Daniel, Beginning of the meeting End of the meeting BBS, MH, JP

Ms CHAN Mei-lin Beginning of the meeting End of the meeting

Mr CHAN Sze-ching 11:10 a.m. End of the meeting Mr CHEUNG Muk-lam 10:15 a.m. 12:30 p.m. Ms CHIU Sau-han, MH 10:15 a.m. 12:35 p.m. Mr CHOW Wing-kan Beginning of the meeting End of the meeting Mr KWOK Hing-ping Beginning of the meeting 12:35 p.m. Mr KWOK Keung, MH Beginning of the meeting End of the meeting

The Hon KWONG Chun-yu Beginning of the meeting 12:30 p.m.

Mr LAI Wai-hung Beginning of the meeting 12:30 p.m. Ms LAU Kwai-yung Beginning of the meeting End of the meeting Mr LEE Yuet-man, MH 10:35 a.m. End of the meeting Mr LEUNG Ming-kin Beginning of the meeting End of the meeting Mr LUI Kin, MH 01:15 p.m. End of the meeting Mr LUK Chung-hung, JP Beginning of the meeting 13:30 p.m.

Ms MA Shuk-yin 10:25 a.m. 12:30 p.m.

Mr SHUM Ho-kit, JP Beginning of the meeting 12:45 p.m Mr SIU Long-ming, MH Beginning of the meeting End of the meeting Mr TANG Cheuk-him Beginning of the meeting 12:25 p.m. Mr TANG Cheuk-yin 02:30 p.m. End of the meeting Mr TANG Hing-ip, BBS Beginning of the meeting End of the meeting

Mr TANG Yung-yiu, Ronnie Beginning of the meeting 12:25 p.m.

Mr TO Ka-lun 10:30 a.m. End of the meeting Mr WONG Cheuk-kin 10:40 a.m. End of the meeting Mr WONG Wai-ling 10:15 a.m. End of the meeting Mr WONG Wai-shun, MH Beginning of the meeting 01:30 p.m. Mr WONG Wai-yin, Zachary Beginning of the meeting 01:30 p.m. Mr YIU Kwok-wai Beginning of the meeting 01:30 p.m.

Mr YOUNG Ka-on Beginning of the meeting End of the meeting

Ms YUEN Man-yee Beginning of the meeting End of the meeting

Co-opted Members : Mr CHAN Tin-yam Beginning of the meeting 12:30 p.m. Mr CHEUNG Wai-sum Beginning of the meeting 01:30 p.m. Mr CHUI Kwan-siu Beginning of the meeting End of the meeting Ms KWOK Ching-yin Beginning of the meeting 01:30 p.m. Mr LAM Ting-wai Beginning of the meeting End of the meeting Mr LI Kai-lap, Riben 10:10 a.m. End of the meeting Mr TANG Kam-fai Beginning of the meeting 12:30 p.m. Mr TANG Wing-ming, Jim Beginning of the meeting 13:20 p.m

Secretary : Miss WONG Chung-wai, Executive Officer (District Council) 2, Yuen Long Leah District Council In Attendance Miss POON Wai-yee, Joanna Assistant District Officer (Yuen Long) 2 Ms TAM Lok-yan, Carol Senior Transport Officer/Yuen Long 1, Transport Department Mr LEUNG Ka-lok, Kelvin Senior Transport Officer/Yuen Long 2, Transport Department Mr CHAN Ting-hong, Senior Engineer/Boundary, Transport Department Terence Mr Lee Kar-chun, Wilson Engineer/Yuen Long East, Transport Department Mr MAN Ka-ho, Wilson Engineer/Yuen Long West, Transport Department Mr AU Man-yu, Derek Engineer/Yuen Long Central, Transport Department Mr CHAN Veng-sang District Engineer/Yuen Long (East), Highways Department Mr SHIH Yung-chi District Engineer/Yuen Long (West), Highways Department Mr LI Yuk-tsz Engineer/16 (West),Civil Engineering and Development Department Ms LAU Hung-yin District Operations Officer (), Hong Kong Police Force Mr WONG Sai-ho Officer-in-charge of District Traffic Team (Yuen Long District), Hong Kong Police Force Mr LUI Kai-ming Housing Manager/YLG5, Housing Department Mr WONG Yat-keung, Administrative Assistant/Acting (District Lands Clement Office, Yuen Long), Lands Department

Item 2 Ms AUYEUNG Wai-sum Chief Engineer of Civil Engineering and Development Department/Pedestrian Pathway Cover 1 Mr TANG Yiu-kei Project Coordinator of Civil Engineering and Development Department/Pedestrian Pathway Cover 1-1 Mr LEE Kwok-cheung Director of Ho Tin & Associates Consulting Engineers Limited Ms WONG Hei-yin Project Coordinator 1 of Transport Department/Walkable City

Item 3 Mr TO Chi-keung Senior Transportation Manager of Transport Department/Railway 1 Mr KOO Wai- Kei Operations Manager of MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL) Ms LAM Yuen Public Relations Manager of MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL) - External Affairs

Item 4 Mr ZETO Kin-yan Senior Project Manager of Success Keep Limited Mr CHEUNG Wai-chi Senior Engineer of Arup Group Limited

Absent

Mr CHING Chan-ming (Absent due to other commitments) Mr LEUNG Fuk-yuen Mr MAN Kwong-ming (Absent due to other commitments) Mr MAN Ping-lam, MH (Absent due to other commitments) Mr TANG Ka-leung Mr NG Ka-leung

* * * * *

Opening Remarks

The Chairman welcomed Members and government department representatives to the second meeting of the Traffic and Committee (“T&TC”) under the Yuen Long District Council (“YLDC”) in 2019.

Item 1: Confirmation of the minutes of the first meeting of Traffic and Committee (T&TC) in 2019

2. The minutes of the above meeting was confirmed by Members unanimously. Item 2: Constructing a cover for the pedestrian pathway from I to (T&TC Paper No. 26/2019)

3. The Chairman welcomed the following persons to the meeting:

Civil Engineering and Development Department Chief Engineer/Pedestrian Pathway Cover 1 Ms AUYEUNG Wai-sum Project Coordinator/Pedestrian Pathway Cover 1-1 Mr TANG Yiu-kei

Ho Tin & Associates Consulting Engineers Limited Director Mr LEE Kwok-cheung

Transport Department Project Coordinator 1/Walkable City Ms WONG Hei-yin

4. Mr TANG Yiu-kei briefly introduced the above paper.

5. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) It was suggested that the cover for the pedestrian pathway should be replaced with opaque or dark materials for blocking sunlight and heat insulation. Non-reflective materials should be used to avoid affecting nearby residents;

(2) Members have reservations about the height and width of the current design. It was requested to widen the cover for the pedestrian pathway to a minimum of 1.7 meters, making use of existing space to widen the cover as far as the topographic condition permits. It was also suggested to re- examine the layout of all the columns and uneven road surface, to allow two electric wheelchairs from opposite directions to pass at the same time;

(3) It was inquired whether the cover drawn in the computer simulation map 2 lacked continuity;

(4) Regarding the connection between the cover and the existing building, it was hoped that the pedestrian pathway cover be extended to connect the entrance/exit of Pok Oi Hospital. It was considered technically feasible to construct the pedestrian pathway cover, and the Transportation Department (TD) should discuss the arrangements with Pok Oi Hospital. Some Members indicated that the entrance/exit of Pok Oi Hospital was a private area, it would be difficult to construct the cover over it;

(5) Concerns were raised about public security issues after the cover construction. It was suggested that TD should install a lighting system, references of which could be taken from the cover for environment-friendly bus stops, with solar panels on the upper side, and lighting fixtures, fans and mosquito repellent devices at the bottom side;

(6) It was inquired about the works timetable of the pedestrian pathway cover. The schemes were expected to be implemented as soon as possible;

(7) It was suggested that road improvement works should be carried out simultaneously with the cover construction;

(8) It was inquired whether the cover could be extended to cover the cycling track area. It was concerned that the current design would encourage bicycle riders to ride on the pedestrian pathway on rainy days and pose hazards;

(9) It was suggested to invite local groups to decorate the pedestrian pathway with designs that feature the characteristics of Yuen Long;

(10) The scheme to construct a cover for the pedestrian pathway was welcomed. However, some Members expressed disappointments with the design and requested TD to explain the reasons for not connecting the cover with Yoho Mall I. It was hoped that TD would take Members' views into consideration, further improve the scheme, and report the progress to Members in a timely manner;

(11) It was considered that the design of the internal access of Yoho Mall I was inappropriate. It was hoped that TD and the Highways Department (HyD) would follow up on the pedestrian crossing and barrier-free access facility arrangements of the mall;

(12) It was pointed out that the Government should further expand the scheme. For example, the provision of pedestrian pathway covers from the Light Rail (LR) Chung Fu Stop to Hospital, from Small Traders New Village to Pok Oi Hospital, and from Yuen Long Tung Shing Lei Road to Pok Oi Hospital should be taken into consideration;

(13) It was suggested that additional seats should be provided under the footbridge to meet the demands of the elderly and people with disabilities. However, some Members had reservations about this suggestion and considered that it would encourage the gathering of people at night and cause noise nuisance; and

(14) It was considered that TD should consider whether Members' proposals were feasible before adopting them, otherwise the funding ceiling would be exceeded.

6. Mr TANG Yiu-kei gave a consolidated reply as follows:

(1) He said the pedestrian pathway cover would be made with aluminum honeycomb panel, which was an opaque and non-reflective material with heat insulation. The material could be colored and would not be limited by designs;

(2) He said that the road improvement works, such as fixing the uneven surface of gutter covers with bricks, would be carried out;

(3) In terms of extending the pedestrian pathway cover to connect with the entrance/exit of Pok Oi Hospital, it was technically difficult due to the pedestrian crossing at the site. Constructing additional pathway cover would cause obstruction to vehicles;

(4) In terms of extending the pedestrian pathway cover to connect with Yoho Mall I, he said that HyD would consider the request if TD gives permission. It was preliminarily considered technically feasible;

(5) He noted Members' suggestion to install solar panels for the lighting of the cover of the pedestrian pathway, HyD would take it into consideration; and

(6) He said that the design of the above item in Yuen Long District was consistent with those of other districts. The model of a 2.6-meter-high pedestrian pathway cover was adopted. The design was limited by the width of existing pedestrian pathway, therefore he suggested to construct a 1.5 meter long and 1.7 meter wide pedestrian pathway cover where topographic condition permits.

7. Ms AUYEUNG Wai-sum gave a consolidated reply as follows:

(1) She said that lighting fixtures were provided in the pedestrian pathway;

(2) She said that feasibility study was being conducted at this stage. If the study results were positive, the tasks on the next stage would include formulating an overall timetable, making detailed designs, applying for funding, and hiring contractors to carry out the works;

(3) She noted Members’ views and expectation to implement the works as soon as possible, and would report to Members in a timely manner; and

(4) She said that there wasn’t a designated funding ceiling for the project. However, if Members hope to implement the project as soon as possible, funding application for items under Category D could be considered. The maximum expenditure for each Category D item was $30 million. Based on preliminary estimation, the maximum expenditure of Category D item could serve as the funding ceiling metric for the design of this project, and application for funding to the Legislative Council would not be required.

8. Mr LEE Kwok-cheung said that the width of the pedestrian pathway cover was mainly limited by the width of the existing pedestrian pathway. It was designed to make full use of the existing space, using newer columns and fitting to both sides of the pathway. Whether the site would allow two electric wheelchairs to pass side by side at the same time would depend on the topography of the site.

9. Ms WONG Hei-yin said that TD had no comment on the arrangement to extend the pedestrian pathway cover to connect with Yoho Mall I entrance/exit, HyD could follow up the matter. In addition, TD did not recommend extending the cover to the cycling tracks, since a higher cover would be required for the cycling tracks. Higher covers were not ideal for sheltering from wind and rain. Regarding the proposal to construct a cover for the pedestrian crossing of Pok Oi Hospital, the height of the pedestrian pathway cover would have to be greatly increased to allow vehicles to pass safely. It would also create burden and complications to the design. She pointed out that a five-meter high cover would not be ideal for sheltering from wind and rain.

10. The Chairman concluded that Members hoped to implement relevant schemes as soon as possible. At the same time, while the $30 million maximum expenditure for Category D item serve as the funding ceiling metric for the design of this project, Members' views such as widening the cover should be taken into account. Reports should be made to Members in a timely manner.

Item 3: New fleet of Light Rail vehicles entering service (T&TC Paper No. 31/2019)

11. The Chairman welcomed the following persons to the meeting:

Transport Department Senior Transportation Manager/Railway 1 Mr TO Chi-keung

MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL) Operations Manager Mr KOO Wai-kei Public Relations Manager Ms LAM Yuen

12. Mr TO Chi-keung, Ms LAM Yuen and Mr KOO Wai-kei briefly introduced the above paper.

13. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) Hong Kong Railway Company Limited (MTR) was welcomed to introduce the frequency arrangement of new vehicles. It was considered that there was still room to increase the number of new vehicles. It was urged that the MTR expedite the deployment of more new vehicles into service.

(2) It was considered that the new vehicles would allow more flexible train frequency and enhance the service of busy routes, such as route no. 751. Members were also concerned about the uneven arrival time of LR train shifts at individual stops, such as Stop and Chestwood Stop;

(3) The service of new vehicles on route no. 751 was welcomed. It was hoped that all vehicles on route no. 751 would be coupled-set in the long run to relieve the overcrowding situation.

(4) It was concerned that the reduction of train frequency on route no. 614 and 615 from every 12 minutes to every 16 minutes would increase the number of passengers waiting on the platform during peak hours, resulting in overcrowding. It was inquired that whether the vehicle speed of the concerned routes would increase;

(5) It was stated that most vehicles on route no. 610 and 751 were single-set. It was inquired whether new coupled-set vehicles would be deployed to maintain the original service frequency, or single- set vehicles would be deployed with increased service frequency. It was concerned that the service of two additional new vehicles would not be sufficient to ease the demand;

(6) It was hoped that the MTR would provide a detailed timetable to clarify the time required between the purchase and the service commencement of the new vehicles; and

(7) Regarding the fact that LR vehicles were given road priority on Castle Peak Road (Yuen Long) near city centre (Yuen Long Main Road), it was concerned whether additional new vehicles would cause more congestion to the road, and if any countermeasure by the MTR was in place.

14. Ms LAM Yuen gave a consolidated reply as follows:

(1) The MTR would gradually increase the number of new vehicles from 2019 to 2023. Due to system restrictions, however, the MTR would have to adjust the frequency of different routes to deploy new vehicles in service to improve the uneven train frequency and congestion of LR vehicles in some sections.

(2) The frequency of route no. 614 and 615 would be unified to every 12 to 16 minutes, which would even the frequency and reduce the congestion between LR vehicles, in the hope that the overall journey time would be shortened;

(3) Two additional new vehicles were expected to start service on route no. 610 and 751 in the second half of 2019, and the vehicles would be coupled-set. The MTR had observed the high demand for route no. 751, and had increased the number of special shifts during peak hours; and

(4) The MTR had been exploring how to avoid road and system congestion while deploying additional vehicles. In addition, the company was expecting the delivery of the third and fourth new vehicles to Hong Kong in 2019. Relevant testing and acceptance procedures were expected to be conducted as soon as possible for the new vehicles to start service. The ratio of coupled-set vehicles in service would be increased after the addition of new vehicles.

15. Mr KOO Wai-kei said that the first group of new vehicles would be deployed for coupled-set service. He hoped that the overcrowding situation of system and road would be eased by unifying route no. 614 and 615. The MTR would closely monitor the traffic situation after the new vehicles were put into service. In addition, he clarified that absolute road priority was not granted to LR vehicles on Yuen Long Main Road. The MTR would continue to co-operate with TD to allow appropriate travel time for LR vehicles and other cars.

16. Mr TO Chi-keung said that TD and the MTR would continue to examine the route arrangement while deploying additional new vehicles, in order to make appropriate adjustments on the frequency and enhance the efficiency and passenger capacity of LRT service operation. TD and the MTR would further adjust the frequency if congestions still occur in some sections.

17. The Chairman concluded that the MTR was expected to deploy additional new vehicles as soon as possible to serve the public.

Item 4: Proposed property development project at West Rail (Yuen Long Town Land Lot No. 510) – U-turn at Castle Peak Road and temporary traffic management measures at Southern and Northern sites (T&TC Paper No. 33/2019)

18. The Chairman welcomed the following persons to the meeting:

Success Keep Limited Senior Project Manager Mr ZETO Kin-yan

Arup Group Limited Senior Engineer Mr CHEUNG Wai-chi

19. Mr ZETO Kin-yan and Mr Cheung Wai-chi briefly introduced the paper.

20. Members’ views on procedural issues were summarised as follows:

(1) It was indicated by some Members that the agenda was submitted by the developers, and it was considered that only agenda items submitted by the Government departments should be discussed at the meeting. It was also considered that TD should first discuss with the developers the arrangements of temporary traffic management measures. Relevant papers should be submitted by TD to the Committee for discussion. It was suggested by some Members that the agenda be shelved; and

(8) It was said by some Members that although it was agreed that the agenda should be followed up by TD, the objective of the agenda was to propose ways to alleviate the traffic congestion along Castle Peak Road, therefore TD and the developers should take note of Members' views. There were also some Member considering that it was the successful bidder’s responsibility under the title deed to carry out the U-turn works in Castle Peak Road, therefore the agenda item was submitted to the Committee for discussion; due to the urgency of the works, and the new traffic demand expected to be met after the project completion in future time, it was hoped to discuss the above agenda item at this meeting.

21. Mr LEE Kar-chun responded that the developers had conducted preliminary discussion with TD on the temporary traffic management measures. Due to the substantial scale of the temporary traffic management measures this time, the developers believed that the Committee should be consulted before making decisions for the next step. TD had also agreed with the consultation arrangement. The U-turn works in Castle Peak Road (Yuen Long) was initiated based on the results of the traffic impact assessment and in response to the real estate development. The footbridge works near the westbound lane of Castle Peak Road was carried out under the entrustment agreement between the Government and the MTRCL. When TD receives similar proposals in the future, TD would optimize the arrangement of consultation to the Committee with the project initiators.

22. The Chairman concluded that after considering Members' opinions, he decided to continue the discussion of the agenda item.

23. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) It was stated that the agenda item should be submitted to the meeting for discussion by the Government department. TD should first discuss with the developers the arrangements for temporary traffic management measures, and consult the Committee before commencing the works;

(2) It was opposed to relocate the stop of residents' coaches to Long Ming Street, since the route would become more circuitous than the existing one, which travelled through Long Lok Road at present, and could cause traffic congestion when the vehicles leave. The facilities for people with disabilities at the Long Ming Street exit of MTR Yuen Long Station were insufficient and inconvenient for the users;

(3) It was suggested to relocate the stop of residents' coaches to a covered site with lifts in Yoho Mall or on Long Yat Road, or to construct a cover at the proposed site on Long Ming Street. It was also suggested to allow the residents' coaches to use some of the less used bus stops of Kowloon Bus Company or the transport interchange of Yoho Mall;

(4) It was inquired about the backup scheme if traffic congestion was caused by the relocation of the stop of residents' coaches;

(5) It was suggested to relocate 68F station, which was suspended from use, to an appropriate location;

(6) It was considered that the traffic congestion situation of Castle Peak Road was serious. The drop- off and pick-up area of the bus stop had occupied the leftmost lane in front of Shap Rural Committee. It would worsen the congestion during peak hours if the traffic lane for Yuen Long On Lok Road and the traffic lane to join Long Yat Road were merged into one. Road users would only be able to drive on the middle lane. It was suggested to apply double white lines to the road section to prevent congestions caused by vehicles switching lanes, or that the bus stop in front of Rural Committee be relocated during the works period;

(7) It was considered that the bus stop in front of Shap Pat Heung Rural Committee had been serving a great number of citizens. TD should consult the stakeholders of the district before making temporary traffic arrangements;

(8) It was proposed to arrange vehicles to turn right onto Castle Peak Road from Long Yat Road, which was considered effective in easing the traffic flow on Long Yat Road. However, the measure must be coordinated with the arrangement of merging lanes;

(9) It was inquired about the reasons for constructing the U-turn lane in Castle Peak Road. It was considered that the U-turn lane would divert the traffic flow from Long Yat Road to area;

(10) It was considered that all vehicles would intersect on the westbound lane of Castle Peak Road after the completion of the U-turn lane in Castle Peak Road, regardless of the direction of vehicles. It was inquired whether TD had calculated the traffic flow in detail. It was suggested to extend the slip lane into the U-turn lane to avoid congestion caused by vehicles making U-turn;

(11) It was considered that the construction of the U-turn lane in Castle Peak Road would encourage vehicles to turn sharply on Castle Peak Road and cause congestion in the area;

(12) It was pointed out that longer green light period of the westbound lane of Castle Peak Road could aggravate the congestion of other roads;

(13) It was pointed out that traffic flows of three lanes would enter Castle Peak Road after the completion of the works. It was concerned whether capacity of Castle Peak Road was adequate for the traffic load and whether it would aggravate traffic congestion situation on Castle Peak Road;

(14) It was inquired whether the temporary improvement measures for vehicles on Long Yat Road to turn right onto Castle Peak Road would be retained as a permanent measure after the completion of the works;

(15) It was concerned that the merger of the westbound lane of Castle Peak Road and the northbound lane of Long Yat Road would aggravate traffic congestion;

(16) It was concerned that the traffic demand increased by the development of Tung Tau area could not be met with the only lane retained to join Long Yat Road;

(17) After vehicles enter the northbound lane of Long Yat Road, no left turns were allowed into the taxi stop under West Rail Station. The situation caused traffic congestion all the way back to Castle Peak Road. It was suggested that the restriction on left turns at the junction should be cancelled;

(18) It was inquired about the arrangements of existing speed cameras on Yuen Long On Lok Road,, under temporary traffic management measures;

(19) It was inquired about the results of the assessment of the impact on existing traffic during the construction period; and

(20) It was suggested that TD and the developers take Members' views into consideration proactively, improve the temporary traffic management measures, and consult the Committee again later on.

24. Mr LEE Kar-chun gave a consolidated response as follows:

(1) Based on the traffic data collected by TD, the temporary traffic measure for vehicles to turn onto Castle Peak Road from Long Yat Road would have to be implemented before implementing the temporary arrangement for vehicles to go straight onto On Lok Road from the LR junction and to turn right to Long Yat Road. At present, the traffic flow of northbound vehicles through Long Lok Road to Main Road from Wong Uk Tsuen and the country area north of Long Yat Road was heavy. If the junction where vehicles turn right onto Castle Peak Road from Long Yat Road for Main Road was completed, the green light period from Long Lok Road to Main Road could be shortened;

(2) He noted the traffic problems in the area of Shap Pat Heung Rural Committee. Possible measures would be explored to reduce the congestion situation;

(3) He suggested that developers conduct a one-week trial before implementing the temporary traffic measures to assess the impact on traffic to make proper decisions for the next step;

(4) He would continue to request the developers to review the proposed alignment arrangement of the junction to make further improvements to the junction;

(5) He pointed out that traffic would be affected if vehicles were allowed to turn right at the two adjacent junctions of Long Yat Road and Long Lok Road. Therefore, the right turn to the Castle Peak Road from Long Yat Road could only be a temporary traffic management measure;

(6) He pointed out that the construction of U-turn lane in Castle Peak Road (Yuen Long) would help divert traffic from YOHO Midtown and Fung Yau areas for Pok Oi Interchange;

(7) Regarding the situation of vehicles unable to turn left for the taxi stop from the northbound lane of Long Yat Road, TD had indicated that pick-up/set-down facilities and a footbridge to West Rail Station would be available after the completion of topside development works; and

(8) The speed cameras near the LR junction on the westbound lane of Castle Peak Road (Yuen Long) for Yuen Long On Lok Road would be temporarily removed for the works of the U-turn lane. The feasibility of relocating the speed cameras to appropriate place after the completion of the works would be looked into.

25. Mr ZETO Kin-yan gave a consolidated reply as follows:

(1) He would continue to review the proposed alignment arrangement of the junction with TD to reduce the impact of the works on the junction;

(2) He said there was another 68F bus stop on Long Yat Road, north of West Rail Yuen Long Station. He considered that the suspension from use of the stop would not cause too much inconvenience to the residents;

(3) He believed that relocating the stop for residents’ coaches to Long Ming Street was an appropriate proposal after considering the flow of traffic and people caused by the relocation of the staff bus and the residents’ coaches. It would be looked into whether to construct a cover at the site and provide accessible facilities.

(4) He said that the consultation period would be negotiated with the project subcontractor to tie in with the works period;

(5) A test for temporary traffic arrangements would be conducted on the site to assess the impact on traffic and to collect feedbacks from TD and the Police to define the scheme for the next step.

26. The Chairman concluded that Members were concerned about the impact of the temporary traffic management measures and relevant development works on the traffic in the area. He suggested that the developers co-operate with TD and the Police to conduct traffic tests. Members were also concerned about the relocation of the stops for buses and for residents’ coaches. It was suggested that the developers consult DC Members of the constituency and other stakeholders.

Item 5: Questions raised by Members: (1) Mr MAK Ip-sing, Ms CHAN Mei-lin, Mr WONG Wai-yin, Zachary, the Hon KWONG Chun- yu, Mr TO Ka-lun and Mr LAM Ting-wai requested that pedestrian crossings with pedestrian lights be installed at the accesses to both platforms of Light Rail Shui Pin Wai Station (T&TC Paper No. 27/2019)

27. The Chairman welcomed the following person to the meeting:

MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL) Public Relations Manager Ms LAM Yuen

28. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) It was supported to set up pedestrian crossings on both sides of RL Shui Pin Wai Stop, which would not only facilitate the flow of people, but also make it more convenient for residents traveling to and from the RL platforms;

(2) It was suggested that TD and relevant Members should conduct on-site inspections and implement relevant schemes;

(3) It was hoped that TD would provide preliminary traffic assessment of Shui Pin Wai Stop or other solutions to improve the crossing facilities of the site; and

(4) It was suggested that the MTR and TD conduct a comprehensive review of the design of the old LR stop in order to provide accessible environment.

29. Mr AU Man-yu said that TD would consider the feasibility of setting up traffic lights to manage pedestrian crossings on both sides of RL Shui Pin Wai Stop. As the proposal may affect the operation of the LRT, advices of the MTR would be consulted by TD. When further information is available, TD would report to relevant Members. It was also welcomed for relevant Members to conduct on-site inspections with TD.

30. Ms LAM Yuen said that the MTR would continue to discuss with relevant Government departments about the possible changes and safety issues of the platforms and LR crossings usage brought about by the proposal. It was also welcomed for relevant Members to conduct on-site inspections with the MTR.

31. The Chairman suggested that TD, the MTR, and relevant Members to conduct on-site inspections to improve relevant crossing facilities.

(2) Mr WONG Wai-shun, MH urged that the cover of the walkway between Yuen Long Light Rail Station and the bus stop near be rebuilt or its design be improved to minimise congregation of wild birds (T&TC Paper No. 28/2019)

32. The Chairman welcomed the following person to the meeting:

MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL) Public Relations Manager Ms LAM Yuen

33. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) The MTR's improvement proposal was welcomed. However, it was believed that the gathering of wild birds had not been effectively prevented. The situation affected environmental hygiene, posing risks of spending diseases associated with birds, and also caused inconvenience to the residents;

(2) It was requested that the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) step up efforts to cleanse the site. The MTR was also requested to co-operate and propose suitable enhancement solutions; and

(3) It was suggested to avoid using steel H-piles for the superstructure construction, and to add plastic sheets.

34. Ms LAM Yuen gave a consolidated response as follows:

(1) She said that the MTR had been examining enhancement solutions of the superstructure design, and had displayed notices at the entrance/exits of relevant MTR stations to remind people not to feed the birds;

(2) She said that the MTR had installed repelling devices for birds on the superstructure between MTR Yuen Long Station and LR Yuen Long Terminus; however, the effect was limited. Therefore, the MTR would look into the alteration of lighting fixtures of the superstructure, such as adopting more inclined, round, and slippery surface with smaller lampshade, etc.; and

(3) The MTR noted other suggestions put forward by Members, such as the addition of plastic sheets. Further examination would be conducted.

35. The Chairman requested relevant departments to step up cleansing efforts and requested the MTR to follow up the matter.

(3) Mr CHAN Sze-ching requested that illegal motor racing and noise nuisance at Tin Ying Road be discussed (T&TC Paper No. 11/2019)

(9) Mr WONG Wai-shun, MH, Mr WONG Cheuk-kin and Ms KWOK Ching-yin urged that red light cameras be installed at the road section along Yuen Long Highway near Grand YOHO, YOHO Town and YOHO Midtown (T&TC Paper No. 17/2019)

36. The Chairman suggested a merger discussion as the two issues were relevant.

37. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) It was considered that the problem of illegal motor racing and modified vehicles in the district was serious, which caused noise nuisance to the residents. Therefore, the Police and TD were requested to set up speed cameras on relevant roads, including Wang Lok Street, Wetland Park Road, Wang Yip Street West, Tin Tsz Road, Tin Ying Road, Long Yat Road, Fung Cheung Road, Fung Ki Road, Shap Pat Heung Road, Long Tin Road, Hung Tin Road, Tak Yip Street, and Yuen Long Highway to enhance deterrence as soon as possible;

(2) It was difficult for the Police to prosecute if the vehicle involved in the offense had not been modified, and the noise problem remained unresolved;

(3) It was believed that imported vehicles generally emit more noise. Noise was not necessarily caused by modified vehicles or motor racing activities. Therefore, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) was requested to raise the standard for vehicle noise emission;

(4) It was stated that the existing ordinance required vehicles to be inspected only when problems occur with the silencer. It was suggested that relevant ordinances be reviewed to cover vehicles in normal operation but emit excessive noise;

(5) Disappointments were felt that EPD considered that the sections of Castle Peak Road and Yuen Long Highway near MTR Yuen Long Station did not meet the standard for installing noise barriers;

(6) It was hoped that the Police would provide the speeding data of vehicles on Castle Peak Road and Yuen Long Highway near MTR Yuen Long Station as the criteria for setting up speed cameras.

(7) It was considered ineffective to set up speed cameras, since increased concentration of speed cameras was only effective in preventing vehicles from speeding continuously;

(8) It was suggested that the Government consider adopting new technology to enforce the laws, and consider adopting road management facilities and measures other than speed cameras, including the introduction of distance speed detection, the installation of closed-circuit television, and road use restriction on heavy vehicles to improve the well-being of citizens;

(9) It was requested to set up roadblocks on Tin Ying Road, Wetland Park Road, Tin Tsz Road, Long Tin Road, and Hung Tin Road to stop suspected illegally modified vehicles for inspection;

(10) It was believed that relevant issues had been discussed for years without progress. TD had the responsibility to approve the application to set up speed cameras as soon as possible. It was proposed that Tin Ying Road be the pilot location for setting up speed cameras;

(11) It was considered that Police officers should be deployed to step up the enforcement where speed cameras were not installed; and

(12) The Police were requested to step up efforts to prosecute businesses of illegally modified vehicles and resolve the problem from the source.

38. The Chairman concluded that the noise problems caused by illegal motor racing vehicles and modified vehicles were serious. Members of the meeting raised a number of black spots and requested the Secretariat to write to TD and the Police Force to urge the departments to set up speed cameras on the relevant roads as soon as possible to increase the deterrent effect.

(After meeting note: The Secretariat sent a letter to TD and the Police Force on 22 March, 2019 to reflect Members' views. The response of relevant departments was forwarded to Members for reference on 8 April of the same year.)

(4) Mr WONG Wai-yin, Zachary, Mr MAK Ip-sing, Mr CHAN Mei-lin, Mr TO Ka-lun, the Hon KWONG Chun-yu and Mr LAM Ting-wai requested that Lau Yip Street be widened for two- way traffic (T&TC Paper No. 12/2019)

39. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) It was considered that there was sufficient space to widen Lau Yip Street into a dual two-lane carriageway. It was also suggested to make use of the lawn or flower-beds to set up pedestrian refuges;

(2) It was stated that the road markings should be clearer to prevent traffic accidents if the street was changed into a dual two-lane carriageway; and

(3) It was considered that widening the street into a dual two-lane carriageway could improve the congestion situation caused by nearby garbage trucks.

40. Mr LEE Kar-chun gave a consolidated reply as follows:

(1) He pointed out that there were industrial buildings and amusement park on both sides of the Lau Yip Street junction. He also noted that Members hoped to make use of the lawn or flower-beds to set up safety pedestrian refuges. However, the lawn and flower-beds were managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD). TD would follow up with relevant departments on the matter;

(2) He said that TD would further examine whether there was a need to set up pedestrian refuges and the feasibility of narrowing the pedestrian refuges; and

(3) He said that TD would follow up on Members’ views on enhancing the road signs.

41. The Chairman suggested that TD and relevant Members conduct on-site inspections, and the reports be made to Members in a timely manner.

(5) Mr CHAM Ka-hung, Daniel, BBS, MH, JP requested that more motorcycle parking spaces be provided in Tin Shui Wai (T&TC Paper No. 13/2019)

(7) Mr CHAM Ka-hung, Daniel, BBS, MH, JP requested that the duration of traffic light signals at Tin Yiu Road and Tin Ho Road be adjusted (T&TC Paper No. 15/2019)

42. The Chairman suggested a merger discussion since both items were put forward by the same Member.

43. The Member who raised the issue said that he would conduct on-site inspections with TD on improving the traffic lights of Tin Yiu Road and Tin Ho Road. It was therefore proposed not to discuss this agenda item. The Chairman agreed to the arrangement.

44. Members’ views on the issue “request that more motorcycle parking spaces be provided in Tin Shui Wai” were summarised as follows:

(1) It was indicated that there was a long-term shortage of parking space for motorcycles in Tin Shui Wai. It was hoped that relevant departments could find more sites to set up motorcycle parking spaces;

(2) It was hoped that TD would provide additional motorcycle parking spaces in Tin Tsz Estate and Tin Yau Estate;

(3) It was proposed to increase the parking space for motorcycles on Tin Shui Road, which could be expanded in the direction towards Tin Shui Wai Health Centre. It was hoped that on-site inspections would be conducted with TD;

(4) It had been proposed to increase the motorcycle parking spaces in the carpark of the shopping centre. However, the high administrative fee of the District Lands Office had limited the incentives for the shopping centre to increase the parking spaces. It was hoped that the District Lands Office would relax relevant measures;

(5) It had been suggested to increase the motorcycle parking spaces on vacant lot or under the footbridge. However, TD had stated that the proposed sites were not suitable for setting up motorcycle parking spaces due to the uneven ground, and the proposal was therefore rejected. It was indicated by Members that the ground of the motorcycle parking space near Admiralty Station was also uneven, yet it was possible to set up the parking space;

(6) It was considered that many obstacles would be encountered in setting up additional motorcycle parking spaces. For example, the scheme would be put on hold if any objection from the district was encountered; and

(7) It was pointed out that it was difficult to find motorcycle parking spaces at present. The actual usage rate of some carparks was higher than the designed usage rate, such as the motorcycle parking lot on Tin Lung Road. It was pointed out that the provision of 20 additional parking spaces on Tin Lung Road was planned by TD initially, yet only 5 were provided in the end due to tree issues of the site. It was expected that TD would work with LCSD to accomplish the scheme.

45. Mr MAN Ka-ho gave a consolidated reply as follows:

(1) In principle, TD had agreed to increase the provision of motorcycle parking spaces in Tin Shui Wai. At present, the works had been completed on Tin Shui Road, Tin Tan Street, Tin Sau Road and Tin Lung Road. TD would proceed with the works on Tin Fuk Road and Tin Kwai Road.

(2) TD would conduct on-site inspections with Members on the provision of additional motorcycle parking spaces on Tin Shui Road;

(3) TD would look into the situation of the motorcycle parking space near MTR Admiralty Station. In principle, TD would try their best to avoid the situation where motorcycles and pedestrians vying for roads;

(4) He noted Members’ suggestion to set up additional motorcycle parking spaces under the footbridge, which would be discussed with the Lands Office where conditions permit. The site under the footbridge of West Rail Station was managed by the MTR, TD would actively exchange discussions with the MTR;

(5) The works of the remaining 15 motorcycle parking spaces on Tin Lung Road would be commenced as soon as possible; and

(6) Members were welcomed to advice on the provision of additional motorcycle parking spaces at individual sites.

46. The Chairman concluded that Members hoped TD would increase the motorcycle parking spaces in Tin Shui Wai as soon as possible.

Item 6: Any other business

47. The Chairman declared that the meeting was adjourned at 3 pm because of the absence of a quorum.

Yuen Long District Council Secretariat April 2019