Minutes of the 5Th Meeting of the District Facilities Management Committee Eastern District Council

Minutes of the 5th Meeting of the District Facilities Management Committee Eastern District Council

Date: 18 September 2018 (Tuesday) Time: 2:30 pm Venue: Eastern District Council (EDC) 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 2:30 end of meeting Mr WONG Kwok-hing, BBS, MH 2:30 4:00 Mr KU Kwai-yiu 2:30 3:45 Mr HO Ngai-kam, Stanley 2:30 end of meeting Mr LEE Chun-keung 2:30 end of meeting Mr LAM Sum-lim (Vice-chairman) 2:30 end of meeting Mr LAM Kei-tung, George 2:30 end of meeting Mr SHIU Ka-fai 2:30 end of meeting Mr HUNG Lin-cham, MH (Chairman) 2:30 end of meeting Mr CHUI Chi-kin 2:30 end of meeting Mr LEUNG Siu-sun, Patrick 2:30 end of meeting Mr LEUNG Kwok-hung, David 2:30 end of meeting Mr KWOK Wai-keung, Aron, JP 2:30 3:30 Ms CHIK Kit-ling, Elaine 2:30 end of meeting Mr WONG Kin-pan, BBS, MH, JP 4:00 end of meeting Mr WONG Kin-hing 3:30 end of meeting Mr YEUNG Sze-chun 2:30 end of meeting Dr CHIU Ka-yin, Andrew 2:30 end of meeting Mr CHIU Chi-keung, BBS 2:30 end of meeting Mr LAU Hing-yeung 2:30 5:00 Mr CHENG Chi-sing 2:55 end of meeting Mr CHENG Tat-hung 2:30 end of meeting Mr NGAN Chun-lim, MH 2:30 end of meeting Mr LO Wing-kwan, Frankie, MH 2:45 end of meeting Mr KUNG Pak-cheung, BBS, MH 3:20 end of meeting Mr KWOK Wing-kin (co-opted 2:30 end of meeting member)

Absent with Apologies

Ms LI Chun-chau Mr CHEUNG Kwok-cheong, Howard Ms LEUNG Wing-man, Bonnie Mr HUI Lam-hing Mr HUI Ching-on Mr MAK Tak-ching Ms CHOY So-yuk, BBS, JP Mr LAI Chi-keong, Joseph

In Regular Attendance (Government Representatives)

Mr CHAN Sheung-man, District Officer (Eastern), Simon, JP Eastern District Office Miss WAH Pui-yee, Vivian Senior Executive Officer (District Council), Eastern District Office Mr CHAN Yiu-ming, Senior Liaison Officer (1), Frederick Eastern District Office Ms WONG Sze-man, Senior Liaison Officer (2), Queenie Eastern District Office Ms KONG Kei-kei, Hayley Senior Executive Officer (District Management), Eastern District Office Mr LEUNG Kin-tak, Executive Officer (District Management), Kenneth Eastern District Office Mr LUK Chi-kwong Chief Leisure Manager (Hong Kong East), Leisure and Cultural Services Department Ms TAM Shiu-mei District Leisure Manager (Eastern), Leisure and Cultural Services Department Ms TANG Wing-sze, Maria Deputy District Leisure Manager (District Support) Eastern, Leisure and Cultural Services Department Ms LAM Fong Senior Librarian (Eastern), Leisure and Cultural Services Department Ms LAM Sin-yee, Iris Senior Manager (Hong Kong East/ Cultural Services), Leisure and Cultural Services Department Miss TANG Wai-yan, Zoe Manager (Hong Kong East) Marketing, Programme and District Activities,

2 Action Leisure and Cultural Services Department Ms CHUNG Chun-yiu, Architect (Works)6, Shina Home Affairs Department Mr WONG Hee-hang Senior Inspector of Works (Hong Kong), Home Affairs Department Mr CHAN Hoi-sing Chief Estate Officer (District Lands Office, Hong Kong East, West and South), District Lands Office, Hong Kong East Miss HAU Tsun-tsun, Kenix Executive Officer I (District Council)1, (Secretary) Eastern District Office

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

Mr LO Wai-pan, Eddie Senior Executive Officer (Planning)5, Leisure and Cultural Services Department Mr CHENG Yam-ho Operation and Support Sub-Unit Commander (Enforcement and Control Division) (Traffic Hong Kong Island), Hong Kong Police Force Mr YUEN Chi-kin, Otto Chief Transport Services Officer(Operations)1, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department Mr CHAN Ming-yiu, Cliff Estate Surveyor/Shaukeiwan (District Lands Office, Hong Kong East) District Lands Office, Hong Kong East Mr KWAN Wing-yip Engineer/Eastern 2, Transport Department Mr HO Kwok-tim Senior Engineer/Utilities, Highways Department Ms TONG Wing-sze Engineer/Utilities 1, Highways Department Mr YAN Ki-kit District Engineer/North Point, Highways Department

Opening Remarks

The Chairman welcomed all Members and representatives of government departments to the meeting. Members were also asked to declare their interests pursuant to Section 48 of the Standing Orders of the Eastern District Council (the Standing Orders) when necessary. Members were advised to declare interest(s) and

3 Action submit the declaration form to the Secretariat before discussing related agenda items for record purpose and for ruling on the interest(s) declared.

I. Confirmation of the Draft Minutes of the 4th Meeting of DFMC

2. The District Facilities Management Committee (DFMC) confirmed the above draft minutes without amendment.

II. By-election of the Co-opted Member of DFMC (DFMC Paper No. 38/18)

3. The Secretary introduced Paper No. 38/18 and a nomination list received before the meeting. Mr CHIU Chi-keung nominated Mr YUEN Kin-chung as a co-opted member of the DFMC and was seconded by Mr HUNG Lin-cham. The Chairman introduced the information about the community service of Mr YUEN Kin-chung.

4. The DFMC recommended the abovementioned nominee to the EDC as the co- opted member of the DFMC. The term of office would begin upon approval of his appointment by the EDC and would last until 31 December 2019.

(Post-meeting note: The EDC approved the above recommendation on 28 September 2018 by way of circulation.)

III. Report on District Free Entertainment Programmes and Other Arts and Cultural Activities Organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department in Eastern District (DFMC Paper No. 39/18)

5. The Chairman welcomed Ms Iris LAM, Senior Manager (Hong Kong East/ Cultural Services) and Miss Zoe TANG, Manager (Hong Kong East) Marketing, Programme and District Activities of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) to the meeting. Ms Iris LAM of the LCSD introduced Paper No. 39/18.

6. The Chairman asked Members to declare their interests.

7. The Chairman declared that he was the Honorary President of “North Point Residents’ Association”. Pursuant to Section 48(12) of the Standing Orders, the

4 Action Vice-chairman would make the ruling upon the declaration. The Vice-chairman said that as the Chairman held a nominal position in the organisation, the Chairman could participate in the discussion and resolution of the related application for joint presentation of programmes and continue to chair the meeting.

8. Members declared their interests as follows:

Name of Interests in the Relevant Organisations Member HUNG Lin- Honorary President, North Point Residents’ Association cham

9. The Chairman said that no other Members had made any declarations for the Paper.

10. The DFMC noted the above Paper and endorsed three applications for joint presentation of programmes in the Paper.

IV. Report on the Usage and Extension Activities of Leisure and Cultural Services Department’s Public Libraries in the Eastern District (DFMC Paper No. 40/18)

11. The Chairman welcomed Ms LAM Fong, Senior Librarian (Eastern) of the LCSD to the meeting. Ms LAM Fong of the LCSD introduced Paper No. 40/18.

12. Mr KU Kwai-yiu asked how the LCSD would step up publicity on the mobile library service point at Kut Shing Street, Chai Wan to increase its usage rate. In addition, he asked whether various district organisations and District Council members could arrange for the public to visit the mobile library service point.

13. Ms LAM Fong of the LCSD responded that in order to increase the usage rate, the LCSD had produced two types of souvenirs in July for users of the mobile library service point at Kut Shing Street. The LCSD would later invite primary and kindergarten students to visit the service point and borrow books. Meanwhile, the LCSD welcomed Members to liaise with the LCSD to arrange for members of the public to visit the mobile library service point.

14. The DFMC noted the above Paper.

5 Action V. Report on Leisure and Cultural Services Department’s Recreational and Sports Activities and Facilities Management in the Eastern District (DFMC Paper No. 41/18)

15. The Chairman welcomed Mr LUK Chi-kwong, Chief Leisure Manager (Hong Kong East), Ms TAM Shiu-mei, District Leisure Manager (Eastern), and Ms Maria TANG, Deputy District Leisure Manager (District Support) Eastern of the LCSD to the meeting. The Chairman asked the LCSD to introduce the Paper and give an account of the facilities affected by Typhoon Mangkhut and the follow-up situation. Ms Maria TANG of the LCSD introduced Paper No. 41/18.

16. Ms TAM Shiu-mei and Ms Maria TANG of the LCSD reported that the outdoor recreation and sports facilities managed by the LCSD were devastated by Typhoon Mangkhut. On the first day of the resumption of work, the LCSD had immediately patrolled the venues to inspect the facilities and trees managed by the LCSD, cordoned off trees that would constitute immediate danger, and reopen some walkways for public access as soon as possible. According to initial estimation, there were more than 1 000 fallen trees. The LCSD would later reinstate and prune the affected trees and clear the affected trees as soon as possible in a prioritised order based on their urgency. With regard to hard-hit areas such as Heng Fa Chuen and Siu Sai Wan, the LCSD had immediately contacted the Architectural Services Department (ArchSD) to review and assess the affected sites, and some facilities in coastal areas, such as Siu Sai Wan Sports Ground, Siu Sai Wan Promenade, Heng Fa Chuen Playground and Fu Hong Street Sitting-out Area, had to be closed immediately due to serious damage. As it was the second day after the typhoon, the LCSD and the relevant works departments had been actively following up and inspecting the damage to the recreational facilities managed by the LCSD, as well as assessing the time required for maintenance and remedial works, so as to determine when the affected facilities could be reopened. The sports centres and swimming pools managed by the LCSD had been reopened to the public the second day after the typhoon. However, as cleansing operation was carried out in Chai Wan Swimming Pool, only the secondary pool and training pool were open for public use.

17. The views and enquiries of 16 Members about the issue are summarised as follows:

(a) Mr WONG Kwok-hing asked the LCSD to follow up the expansion of the storage room at Chai Wan Sports Centre for conversion into a fitness room. In addition, he was concerned about the financial resources arrangement of the LCSD for the follow-up work of Typhoon Mangkhut. In addition, he suggested the LCSD plant more of the trees that were still

6 Action standing after Typhoon Mangkhut and avoid planting trees that would collapse easily on the side of the road.

(b) Mr KU Kwai-yiu asked the LCSD how it would prevent flooding at Siu Sai Wan Sports Ground after the typhoon and when it would be reopened to the public. In addition, Football Pitch No. 1 at Chai Wan Park had been closed for a long time for improvement works. He asked if the project was affected by the typhoon and when the venue would be reopened to the public.

(c) Mr LEE Chun-keung hoped the LCSD would review the species and growing environment of trees planted, so as to avoid horizontal growth of roots which might lead to uneven pavement and trip passers-by. Meanwhile, he asked the LCSD to avoid planting trees with fruits so that passers-by would not be hit by ripe fruits fallen from trees. He was also concerned about whether the LCSD would allocate sufficient resources to handle the aftermath of the typhoon, and hoped that the affected facilities would be reopened to the public as soon as possible.

(d) Mr Eddie TING thanked the frontline staff of the LCSD for handling the aftermath of Typhoon Mangkhut. He asked the LCSD to examine the species of trees along the roadside and the planting method, and consider taking reference from and introduce the practice in other countries to reduce the impact of the typhoon.

(e) Mr Dominic WONG thanked the LCSD for handling the aftermath quickly. In addition, he hoped the LCSD would pay attention to the safety of frontline staff.

(f) Mr David LEUNG said that some of the facilities in Siu Sai Wan managed by the LCSD had been damaged by the typhoon, including the Siu Sai Wan Promenade. Although the Siu Sai Wan Promenade was cordoned off with red and white tape, he was worried that members of the public might enter the venue to film the post-disaster situation, so he asked the LCSD whether it would implement measures to prevent the public from entering the venues before the venues were fully restored. In addition, he also thanked the frontline staff of the LCSD for conducting follow-up work.

(g) Mr Aron KWOK thanked the staff of the LCSD for staying committed to their works after the typhoon and conducting follow-up work. He

7 Action understood that the relevant work took time, but he still hoped that the LCSD would step up on the follow-up work. In addition, he believed that when the Government or the public planted trees, they merely hoped to promote a green environment, and had failed to consider whether the trees planted could withstand strong winds and rainstorms. He hoped the LCSD would improve the situation.

(h) Mr CHIU Chi-keung agreed that the LCSD should learn lessons from Typhoon Mangkhut and select wind-resistant trees when planting trees in the future. He understood that the LCSD had tried its best to conduct follow-up work. However, due to the lack of manpower and resources, he suggested the LCSD consider recruiting temporary staff to help with the clean-up and remove the dead branches on roadside.

(i) Mr CHENG Tat-hung thanked the LCSD for promptly handling the collapsed trees in the venues under its purview and thanked the frontline staff for their dedication to handle the aftermath. He agreed that the LCSD should follow up the planting of trees and advised the LCSD to compile information and data on the impact of Typhoon Mangkhut on the trees as a reference for the planting of trees in the future to reduce the risk of tree collapse. In addition, he said that Siu Sai Wan Sports Ground had a high usage rate, so he hoped the LCSD would give an account of when the venue would be reopened.

(j) Mr NGAN Chun-lim thanked the LCSD for handling the aftermath of the typhoon. He pointed out that like the trees at Oi Yin Street, many trees in Eastern District were protected by iron tree guards and these trees had not collapsed during the passage of typhoon. In contrast, due to the consideration to avoid hindering the growth of trees in the past, some trees were not protected by iron tree guards and were blown down by strong winds. He hoped the LCSD would determine whether the use of iron guards was preferable when planting trees in the future.

(k) Mr Frankie LO commended the government departments for dedicating themselves to handle the aftermath of the typhoon. In addition, he believed that the typhoon was powerful and the disaster prevention work had its inadequacies. Therefore, he hoped the Government would learn from this experience and review the relevant traffic arrangements and enhance coordination with transport operators to cope with even more destructive typhoons in the future.

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(l) Mr Patrick LEUNG pointed out that the collapse of trees at Greig Road Sitting-out Area was severe. He said that the collapse of trees was closely linked with strong winds and it might not be entirely the problem of tree species. Moreover, the staff of the LCSD had proactively cleared the venue to enable access to the sitting-out area. He hoped the LCSD would clear other open spaces of smaller scale as soon as possible so that they would be reopened to the public as soon as possible. In addition, he believed the drainage system at Siu Sai Wan Sports Ground should be strengthened and asked the LCSD to review the situation to avoid flooding after typhoon. Also, since the promenade and the park were affected by the waves caused by the typhoon, he asked the LCSD to pay more attention to the designs of the promenade and the park in the future.

(m) Mr Patrick WONG thanked the staff of the LCSD for handling the aftermath of the typhoon. He said that the LCSD had already removed most of the trees blocking residents’ access to Quarry Bay Promenade on the morning after the typhoon. The other trees that had collapsed in the park had a comparatively smaller impact, but he still hoped that the LCSD would deploy adequate manpower for clean-up. In addition, he said that in recent years, some areas prone to strong winds had more collapsed trees during typhoons. Therefore he hoped the LCSD would take heed of climate changes, refer to the latest data and consult the departments concerned when considering whether it would be suitable to plant tall trees in certain areas.

(n) Mr Stanley HO thanked the frontline staff of the LCSD for handling the aftermath. He said that the venues in Heng Fa Chuen under the purview of the LCSD needed to be temporarily closed due to severe damage. If the seawater and silt were not removed from the venues as soon as possible, it would easily result in the breeding of bacteria and mosquitoes. At the same time, he was concerned that there might be an epidemic outbreak in some areas due to environmental hygiene problems. In addition, he was worried that the number of typhoon was increasing and the force and destructive power of the typhoons would become stronger, as a result, the venues under the purview of the LCSD would need to be refurbished almost every year, which would be a waste of manpower and resources. Therefore, he hoped the LCSD would strengthen the wind and seawater resistance of some facilities.

9 Action (o) Ms Elaine CHIK thanked the government departments for handling the aftermath, and members of the public for providing assistance proactively. The recreational facilities along the coast were deeply affected by Typhoon Hato last year and Typhoon Mangkhut this time. She pointed out that the flooding at Siu Sai Wan Sports Ground was more serious than last year, and asked whether the LCSD would implement measures to reduce the impact of typhoons on coastal areas, or if it would refer to methods taken by other coastal countries to prevent flooding. In addition, she believed that other than removing collapsed trees, the LCSD should also check whether the standing trees were potentially dangerous to prevent the occurrence of accidents.

(p) Mr LAU Hing-yeung praised the frontline staff for handling the aftermath after the typhoon. He said that the facilities under the purview of the LCSD had been seriously damaged and there was a lot of follow-up work. Members also understood that it took time to follow up, so he suggested the LCSD recruit temporary staff to provide assistance. In addition, he said that Siu Sai Wan Sports Ground had a high usage rate, so he was concerned about the time required for maintaining the venue and when the venue would be reopened to the public.

18. Ms TAM Shiu-mei and Ms Maria TANG of the LCSD responded to the views and enquiries of Members as follows:

(a) With regard to the expansion of part of the storage room at Chai Wan Sports Centre for conversion into a fitness room, the LCSD had to submit an application to the Government Property Agency (GPA) as the matter involved changes to the purpose of the premise, and the LCSD would only be able to apply for funding, prepare design drawings and carry out the works after the GPA had reviewed and approved the application.

(b) After the typhoon, the LCSD had conducted a preliminary review and believed that Football Pitch No. 1 at Chai Wan Park was only slightly affected by the disaster. Therefore, the LCSD expected the project to be completed by late September or early October.

(c) The LCSD thanked the DFMC for its recognition of the efforts of the frontline staff of the LCSD and concern for their safety. It also thanked Members for their understanding.

10 Action (d) The collapse of trees was more serious as Typhoon Mangkhut had stronger intensity than usual typhoons. Many of the trees planted on roadside might have been planted before the roads were built. The LCSD would review the existing varieties of the trees and accord priority to safety, impact on pedestrian and the growth of trees when selecting species for planting in the future to achieve the objective of "right tree, right place".

(e) With regard to the progress of maintenance, the LCSD had inspected the badly-hit areas with the works departments immediately after the resumption of work. However, as it took time for the LCSD to complete the assessment work, it was unable to determine when the affected facilities would be reopened at this time. The LCSD hoped Members would understand. In addition, the LCSD would increase the number of contracted workers and ask existing staff to work overtime to remove the collapsed trees on pavements as soon as possible. The LCSD would also contact the relevant contractors to expedite the handling of trees that posed hazards to passers-by as soon as possible in the hope of reopening the pedestrian walkways and facilities for public use.

(f) With regard to the resources involved in the handling of the aftermath that Members were concerned about, according to the established practice, financial resources would be allocated by the works departments. However, as the works departments were unable to calculate the actual amount at this stage, the LCSD would allocate resources as needed or seek alternate source of resources.

19. The Chairman concluded by thanking the government departments for being dedicated to their duties during the passage of Typhoon Mangkhut and handling the aftermath. He asked the LCSD to note the views of Members and hoped the LCSD would give an account of the follow-up work at the next meeting. At the same time, he asked the Secretariat to relay Members’ views on the follow-up work of Typhoon Mangkhut to the departments concerned for follow-up. Members could contact the relevant departments directly if necessary.

11 Action LCSD, DEVB 20. After discussion, the DFMC asked the departments concerned to note the (Steering views of Members and the above Paper. Committee on Greening, (Post-meeting note: The Secretariat relayed Members’ views on the follow-up work Landscape and of Typhoon Mangkhut to the departments concerned.) Tree Management), Lands Department (Land and Vegetation Contract Management Section), TD, HyD, FEHD

VI. Funding Application for District Minor Works (DMW) Projects to be Implemented by Leisure and Cultural Services Department- Development of a Temporary Community Garden Adjacent to Quarry Bay Park Phase II (DFMC Paper No. 42/18)

21. Owing to the similar nature of this item and the works of Paper No. 49/18 (2) E3 and the follow-up item no. 3 of Paper No. 50/18, the DFMC agreed to discuss the items together according to the suggestion of the Chairman.

22. The Chairman welcomed Mr Eddie LO, Senior Executive Officer (Planning)5 of the LCSD, Ms Shina CHUNG, Architect (Works)6 of the Home Affairs Department (HAD), Mr CHENG Yam-ho, Operation and Support Sub-Unit Commander (Enforcement & Control Division) (Traffic Hong Kong Island) of the HKPF, Mr Otto YUEN, Chief Transport Services Officer(Operations)1 of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD), Mr Cliff CHAN, Estate Surveyor/Shaukeiwan (District Lands Office, Hong Kong East) of the District Lands Office, Hong Kong East (DLO), Mr KWAN Wing-yip, Engineer/Eastern 2 of the Transport Department (TD), and Mr YAN Ki-kit, District Engineer/North Point of the Highways Department (HyD) to the meeting. Mr Eddie LO of the LCSD introduced Paper No. 42/18.

23. The Chairman reported that the aforementioned site was originally planned for

12 Action open space use. However, after taking into consideration the cost-effectiveness of the works and after the on-site visit conducted by Members, the DFMC discussed the plan to establish a temporary community garden at the site at the previous meeting. The DFMC generally agreed that the new plan would respond to public demand for the related services and tie in with the concept of environmental protection and greening. According to the paper discussed by the Planning, Works and Housing Committee in its meeting dated 4 September 2018, the facilities of the FEHD and the HKPF would be reprovisioned in 2023 at the earliest. Based on past experience, the time might be adjusted based on the approval of the Legislative Council, the progress of the works and other factors. If the project could be completed as scheduled in the fourth quarter of 2020, the temporary community garden could be used for at least three years.

24. The views and enquiries of 5 Members about the issue are summarised as follows:

(a) Mr Eddie TING understood that the proposed community garden plan was of a temporary nature, but he had already considered the cost- effectiveness of the plan. He said that if the project could be completed in 2020, the facility could be used for a certain period of time. If the plan was welcomed by the public, it could also be considered as part of the development plan for Quarry Bay Park Phase II. In addition, he asked whether it would be possible to reduce the consultancy fees and increase the area of the works and the number of plots for practice to make good use of the land.

(b) Mr Patrick WONG supported the use of the currently vacant land for greening and other projects that would benefit the public. He said that the temporary community garden might have a useful life of less than three years, so he hoped the departments concerned would consider simplifying the project outline and reducing the cost of the works. He also asked the departments concerned to clearly explain the temporary nature of the proposed community garden to the public. In addition, he asked whether the details of the operation of the community garden project and the income of the project had been deducted from the recurring maintenance expenditure.

(c) Mr KU Kwai-yiu supported the proposed project and believed it would make good use of the land. He hoped to increase the area of the garden to make the best use of the land and benefit more people. However, he

13 Action also worried that spending more than $5 million to set up a garden that might only be used for two odd years would give an impression of inefficient use of funds. Therefore he suggested that the project should be as simple as possible to cut down on consultancy fees and overall expenses.

(d) The Vice-chairman said that he had also visited the aforementioned site for an on-site inspection. He asked the departments concerned to study whether it would be possible to reduce the consultancy fees and project costs, and suggested that the garden could be optimised if the operation of the garden would be extended in the future. At the same time, he hoped that the facilities would be reused or reprovisioned elsewhere to make good use of resources.

(e) The Chairman asked the departments concerned to further explain the meaning of “the budget for the early stage costs of the project does not include all works items outside the scope of the site” in note 1 of the Paper.

25. Ms Shina CHUNG of the HAD and Mr Eddie LO and Ms Maria TANG of the LCSD responded to the views and enquiries of Members as follows:

HAD

(a) The project costs currently shown in the Paper was only an estimate and the term contract consultant would conduct a site survey in its feasibility study, and would plan and determine the project costs after the area and boundary of the site were determined. The HAD would ensure that the project outline would be as simple as possible, and it was expected that underground utilities such as electricity supply and irrigation system would make up the majority of the project costs. However, the relevant fees would only be determined after a term contract consultant was appointed and a site survey was conducted.

(b) The current development area was about 1 600 square metres, but the actual development area would only be determined after the topographic survey was completed. The HAD would increase the number of plots for practice as much as possible.

14 Action (c) The site of the proposed project was not connected to the main street. It would be necessary to pass through the lane leading to the detention centre outside Quarry Bay Park to access the site and there was currently no space for a pedestrian walkway on the lane. The lead department had contacted the departments concerned on the issue that members of the public had to access the garden via a road without pedestrian facilities in the future. At this stage, the relevant pedestrian facilities had not been finalised and the costs involved could not be determined. Therefore, the current estimated price only included the facilities within the scope of the site. Thus, the note “the budget for the early stage costs of the project does not include all works items outside the scope of the site” had been provided in the Paper.

LCSD

(d) After studying the matter with the departments concerned, the LCSD said that the public could access the garden through Quarry Bay Park Phase II in the future.

(e) The project funds only included the construction of facilities in the garden. Facilities outside the site, including the conversion of the planters of Quarry Bay Park Phase II into accesses would be arranged by the Eastern District Leisure Services Office.

(f) The Community Garden Programme currently organised by the LCSD was usually held three times a year and each programme lasted 18 weeks. The fee for each programme was $400 and each participant could bring along four friends or relatives to join in the planting. The community gardens were managed by resident staff and instructors were arranged to teach the participants planting knowledge. In addition, participants could also go to the garden on weekdays to take care of the plants. About 1 200 members of the public participated in this programme every year, and added with the number of people accessing the gardens every day, the programme was estimated to have attracted more than 10 thousand of participation annually. Based on the area of community garden of 80 to 85 acres provided in the proposed programme, the annual income of the programme was estimated to be about $90,000. The relevant income had not been deducted from the recurring maintenance expenditure shown in the Paper.

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26. The Chairman concluded that the DFMC had already discussed the development of the aforementioned site repeatedly. He was concerned about the cost- effectiveness of the proposed project. The DFMC hoped to make the best use of the land while minimizing costs as much as possible to make good use of public funds. If the project costs were found to be too high after the feasibility study of the works was completed, the DFMC would reconsider the scale of the project.

27. After discussion, the DFMC recommended the EDC to allocate a fund of $214,000 under the DMW Programme for conducting the feasibility study for the proposed works.

(Post-meeting note: The EDC endorsed the aforementioned funding application by way of circulation on 28 September 2018.)

(The Vice-chairman presided over the meeting)

VII. Funding applications submitted by Eastern District Office for DMW Projects - 1. Construction of Covered Walkway outside Chai Wan Road Sitting-out Area No. 1, Chai Wan, Eastern District (DFMC Paper No. 43/18)

2. Installation of Lighting Facilities along Stairway between Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital and Chong Gene Hang College, Chai Wan, Eastern District (DFMC Paper No. 44/18)

28. The Vice-chairman welcomed Ms Hayley KONG, Senior Executive Officer (District Management) and Mr Kenneth LEUNG, Executive Officer (District Management) of the Eastern District Office (EDO) to the meeting. Mr Kenneth LEUNG of the EDO introduced Paper Nos. 43/18 and 44/18.

29. The views and enquiries of 5 Members about the issues are summarised as follows:

(1) Construction of Covered Walkway outside Chai Wan Road Sitting-out Area No. 1, Chai Wan, Eastern District

16 Action (DFMC Paper No. 43/18)

(a) Mr LEE Chun-keung supported the proposed works and believed that it would facilitate access by many residents of Chai Wan on rainy days.

(b) Mr LAU Hing-yeung supported the proposed works and believed that it would improve access to the nearby malls and recreational facilities.

(2) Installation of Lighting Facilities along Stairway between Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital and Chong Gene Hang College, Chai Wan, Eastern District (DFMC Paper No. 44/18)

(c) Mr CHUI Chi-kin asked why the funding application for the relevant lighting works was made under the DMW Programme but not the HyD.

(d) Mr Patrick WONG said that it was also acceptable for the EDO to take over if the HyD was unable to carry out the works in the short term. He believed that the cost of the project was not low and hoped that the EDO would erect lamp posts according to the position of the railings and try to avoid removing and modifying the railings to save money.

(e) The Vice-chairman suggested the EDO explore the feasibility of using solar powered street lamps to support green initiatives.

30. Mr Kenneth LEUNG of the EDO responded to the views and enquiries of Members as follows:

(1) Construction of Covered Walkway outside Chai Wan Road Sitting-out Area No. 1, Chai Wan, Eastern District (DFMC Paper No. 43/18)

(a) The EDO noted Members’ views and would take into account Members’ views when it met with the term contract consultant for follow-up to further implement the works.

(2) Installation of Lighting Facilities along Stairway between Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital and Chong Gene Hang College, Chai Wan, Eastern District (DFMC Paper No. 44/18)

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(b) The EDO had discussed with the HyD before making the funding application, but the HyD said that it would not install additional street lamps for the road section concerned. As members of the Working Group on District Minor Works and Facilities Management had reported that the lighting at the above location was insufficient when discussing the matter at a meeting, which might lead to safety problems, the EDO had made the funding application after communicating with the proponents of the works.

(c) The current estimated costs included consultancy fees, and the estimated cost of the works would only be confirmed after the feasibility study was completed. The EDO would endeavour to reduce unnecessary works to cut down the cost of the works.

(d) The EDO noted Member’s views on exploring the feasibility of using solar powered street lights.

31. After discussion, the DFMC approved the above two works and recommended the EDC to allocate $500,000 and $200,000 under the DMW Programme to carry out the feasibility studies of “Construction of Covered Walkway outside Chai Wan Road Sitting-out Area No. 1, Chai Wan, Eastern District” and “Installation of Lighting Facilities along Stairway between Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital and Chong Gene Hang College, Chai Wan, Eastern District” respectively.

(Post-meeting note: The EDC endorsed the above funding applications by circulation on 28 September 2018.)

(The Chairman presided over the meeting)

VIII. Requesting the Leisure and Cultural Services Department to Provide More Children’s Play Equipment in the Relevant Constituency and Proactively Follow Up the Renovation of the King’s Road Playground in North Point (DFMC Paper No. 45/18)

32. The Chairman welcomed Mr LUK Chi-kwong, Chief Leisure Manager (Hong Kong East), Ms TAM Shiu-mei, District Leisure Manager (Eastern), and Ms Maria

18 Action TANG, Deputy District Leisure Manager (District Support) Eastern of the LCSD to the meeting. Mr CHENG Tat-hung introduced Paper No. 45/18.

33. Ms Maria TANG of the LCSD said that the works departments had reported that there were many underground facilities at the aforementioned venue, therefore there were certain difficulties in building additional facilities. However, the LCSD would arrange for the refurbishment works at the aforementioned venue to be included on the waiting list for facility replacement.

34. The views and enquiries of 4 Members about the issue are summarised as follows:

(a) Mr CHENG Tat-hung said that some of the children’s playground facilities in North Point were far from the aforementioned venue, and the area of North Point Market Rooftop Children’s Playground was larger than the aforementioned venue. He emphasised that the aforementioned venue had enough space for new children’s playground facilities, but he was concerned about how the LCSD would solve the problem of the underground pipelines. In addition, he asked about the number of projects on the waiting list for facility replacement and the priority of the refurbishment works concerned on the waiting list.

(b) Mr CHENG Chi-sing agreed that the aforementioned venue was smaller than other parks, so it would be necessary to provide more playground facilities at the aforementioned venue to meet the needs of the children of the area. He also hoped that the LCSD would give an account of the schedule for the provision of additional facilities.

(c) Mr Patrick LEUNG commented that the square mats replaced by the LCSD this year were not durable. He also believed that the LCSD should provide more facilities when replacing the mats. He hoped that the LCSD would raise the priority of the refurbishment works of the aforementioned venue and provide playground facilities suitable for children of different ages.

(d) The Vice-chairman suggested expanding the roller skating rink at the aforementioned venue to further develop the characteristics of the venue and attract more users. In addition, he hoped that the LCSD would install metal racks for storage in the playground.

35. Ms Maria TANG of the LCSD responded to the views and enquiries of Members

19 Action as follows:

(a) At the last meeting, the DFMC had also provided its views on the mats and children’s playground facilities of the facilities under the purview of the LCSD, and the views had been relayed to the technical team of the LCSD for consideration after the meeting.

(b) The District Leisure Services Offices of various districts were required to submit a fresh waiting list to the technical team annually for consideration. With regard to the provision of additional children’s playground facilities at the aforementioned venue, the Eastern District Leisure Services Office would proactively liaise with the technical team to expedite the waiting time in the hope that the works would be included on the waiting list for facility replacement in the coming year.

(c) The LCSD would study the feasibility of expanding the roller skating rink and installing metal racks for storage at the aforementioned venue.

LCSD 36. After discussion, the DFMC asked the LCSD to note Members’ views and agreed to follow up the agenda item upon further progress.

IX. Requesting the LCSD to Replace All Dustbins with Covered Ones in Chai Wan Park (DFMC Paper No. 46/18)

37. The Chairman welcomed Mr LUK Chi-kwong, Chief Leisure Manager (Hong Kong East), Ms TAM Shiu-mei, District Leisure Manager (Eastern), and Ms Maria TANG, Deputy District Leisure Manager (District Support) Eastern of the LCSD to the meeting. Mr KU Kwai-yiu introduced Paper No. 46/18.

LCSD 38. After discussion, the DFMC asked the LCSD to handle the aforementioned issue as soon as possible to eliminate rodent infestation, and to directly report to the Members concerned.

X. Requesting the Government to Set Up an Inter-departmental Working Group for Establishing an Integrated Database on Underground Facilities (DFMC Paper No. 47/18)

20 Action 39. The Chairman welcomed Mr HO Kwok-tim, Senior Engineer/Utilities, Ms TONG Wing-sze, Engineer/Utilities 1, and Mr YAN Ki-kit, District Engineer/North Point of the HyD to the meeting. Mr CHUI Chi-kin introduced Paper No. 47/18.

40. The views and enquiries of 5 Members about the issue are summarised as follows:

(a) Mr CHUI Chi-kin doubted the effectiveness of the electronic data platform for underground facilities that commenced operation in 2004, as it could only be operated in a collaborative manner and lacked central coordination and management. He reiterated that the Government should now set up and supervise the database on underground facilities to reduce the exploration costs of works and to avoid construction delays due to underground facilities. In addition, he suggested inviting the Development Bureau (DEVB) to attend the next meeting to explain the details of the feasibility study for requiring public utilities to submit their underground facilities data records in a consistent format.

(b) Mr CHENG Tat-hung said that the Government had set up the electronic data platform for underground facilities in 2004 but it was ineffective. He asked the HyD whether it had calculated the error rate of the drawings of the platform. He believed that the establishment and management of the database on underground facilities would ensure the consistency in the format of the underground facility data submitted by government departments and other public and private organisations as well as the accuracy of the data submitted, which would help to promote Hong Kong as a smart city.

(c) Mr KUNG Pak-cheung believed that older districts were developed many years ago and faced difficulties in standardising the format of relevant data on underground facilities. However, he agreed that a database on underground facilities in newly developed areas should be established.

(d) Mr Patrick LEUNG believed that a database on underground facilities should be established for both newly developed areas and older areas. He believed that as the issuing department of road excavation permit, the HyD had the responsibility to integrate the information on the underground facilities and to request the relevant organisations that owned the underground facilities to submit the relevant information.

21 Action (e) The Chairman agreed that setting up a database on underground facilities would reduce the construction time of works, which was cost-effective. However, he also understood the difficulty of setting up a database for underground facilities in older districts.

41. Mr HO Kwok-tim and Ms TONG Wing-sze of the HyD responded to the views and enquiries of Members as follows:

(a) When vetting excavation applications, the HyD requested the applicant to conduct appropriate surveys at the site before making designs, and to obtain records of existing underground facilities within the scope of the works from the relevant public utilities and government departments before excavation. The HyD also required the holder of the road excavation permit to keep a record of the depth and route of the newly laid facilities, and this record must be made in accordance with the common practice in the utilities industry.

(b) The electronic data platform for the underground facilities was not owned by the Government, but operated by various public utilities in a collaborative manner. The purpose of its establishment was to make it convenient for the Government and public utilities to obtain relevant information. Private organisations could request a record of the facilities within the scope of the works from the relevant organisations that owned the underground facilities. The HyD and various stakeholders would review and improve the operation of the platform from time to time. New market operators were also invited to join the platform.

(c) At present, public utilities were required to maintain their own records of the depth and route of their pipelines. They were the owners of the information and had the legal right not to disclose the relevant information. However, in order to avoid damage to their underground facilities, they had no incentive to give the inquirer wrong information. However, as Hong Kong had been developing from many years ago and the requirements for technology and drawing plans in the past were different from that of the present day, old records might deviate from the actual situation which might cause delays in the works.

(d) In view of the increasingly congested underground space, the HyD was working with the relevant policy bureaux and departments to explore the

22 Action possibility of introducing measures to manage the use of underground space more effectively, so that the HyD could manage and monitor the information of underground facilities more effectively and thereby reduce delays to works.

HyD, DEVB 42. After discussion, the DFMC asked the HyD to note the views of Members, and agreed to follow up this agenda item upon further progress. The DFMC also agreed to invite the DEVB to attend the next meeting.

XI. Report on the 3rd Meeting of the DMW & FM Working Group (DFMC Paper No. 48/18)

43. The DFMC noted the report of the aforementioned meeting and recommended the EDC to allocate a fund of $1,695,500 under the DMW Programme for carrying out the five projects in paragraph 5 and 7 of the Paper.

(Post-meeting note: At the meetings on 28 September 2018 and 30 October 2018, the EDC endorsed the funding applications for four projects in paragraph 7 and one project in paragraph 5 of the Paper by circulation, respectively, for a total funding of $1,695,500.)

XII. The Financial and Progress Reports on DMW Projects of Eastern District for the Financial Year of 2018/19 (DFMC Paper No. 49/18)

44. The Chairman welcomed Ms Shina CHUNG, Architect (Works)6 and Mr WONG Hee-hang, Senior Inspector of Works (Hong Kong) of the HAD, Ms Maria TANG, Deputy District Leisure Manager (District Support) Eastern, Mr Eddie LO, Senior Executive Officer (Planning)5, and Ms LAM Fong, Senior Librarian (Eastern) of the LCSD, Ms Hayley KONG, Senior Executive Officer (District Management) and Mr Kenneth LEUNG, Executive Officer (District Management) of the EDO to the meeting.

45. The views and enquiries of 4 Members about the issue are summarised as follows:

“Provision of Seats without Backrests at A Kung Ngam Road”

23 Action (a) Mr George LAM said that after consultation with the relevant stakeholders, he proposed to cancel the above project.

“Improvement Works for Leaping Dragon Walk, Siu Sai Wan (Phase 1)” (E- DMW337)

(b) Mr David LEUNG asked the departments concerned whether the trenching works had been completed.

“Construction of Rain Shelter at the Walkway at 23 Siu Sai Wan Road”

“Construction of a Rainshelter Corridor at 333 Shau Kei Wan Road”

(d) Mr Dominic WONG asked about the progress of the feasibility study for the works.

“Replacement of Potted Plants to Planters along Kornhill Road (near Tai Koo Station Exit C)”

(e) Mr Patrick LEUNG hoped that the departments concerned would provide the revised design of the works as soon as possible.

“Landscape Beautification of Safety Island outside Shipyard Lane”

(f) Mr Patrick LEUNG hoped that the departments concerned would prepare the works design as soon as possible to expedite the works after the completion of the excavation works.

46. Mr Kenneth LEUNG of the EDO, Ms Maria TANG of the LCSD and Ms Shina CHUNG of the HAD responded to the views and enquiries of Members as follows:

EDO

“Provision of Seats without Backrests at A Kung Ngam Road”

(a) The EDO had contacted the proponent of the works and would cancel the aforementioned works in response to the views of the proponent.

24 Action “Improvement Works for Leaping Dragon Walk, Siu Sai Wan (Phase 1)” (E- DMW337)

(b) The EDO had completed the trial trench excavation works in early August 2018 and was currently waiting for the study report. At the same time, the EDO had arranged for the design of the works in the hope of expediting the works.

“Construction of Rain Shelter at the walkway at 23 Siu Sai Wan Road”

(c) The EDO was currently consulting the departments concerned and the public utilities for their views on the proposed works, and would timely arrange for the trial trench excavation works to be carried out to study the feasibility of implementing the works.

“Construction of a Rainshelter Corridor at 333 Shau Kei Wan Road”

(d) The EDO had completed the trial trench excavation works earlier and found that the underground area of the site of the works was congested with pipelines. Therefore, the EDO was currently considering conducting another trial trench excavation works at another location nearby to explore the feasibility of carrying out the works at the site. The EDO would report the progress to the proponent of the works and the DFMC in due course.

“Replacement of Potted Plants to Planters along Kornhill Road (near Tai Koo Station Exit C)”

(e) The EDO had revised the design of the works according to the results of the trial trench excavation works carried out earlier, and would report to the proponent of the works and the DFMC upon further progress.

“Landscape Beautification of Safety Island outside Shipyard Lane”

(f) As government departments concerned and public utilities had been carrying out excavation works at the aforementioned site over the year, the EDO must wait for the works at the said location to be completed before it could commence the beautification works. The EDO had made arrangements to prepare for the design of the works and would endeavour to study ways to compress the time required for follow-up of the works.

25 Action The EDO would report to the proponent of the works and the DFMC upon further progress.

47. After discussion, the DFMC noted the financial and progress reports, and agreed to cease following up the suggestion of “Provision of Seats without Backrests at A Kung Ngam Road”.

XIII. Progress Report of Items Arising from Previous DFMC Meetings (DFMC Paper No. 50/18)

(i) Protecting the Side of the Woodland and Building a Tai Chi Leisure Trail

48. The agenda item was to be discussed every two meetings and would be discussed at the meeting in November 2018.

(ii) Requesting to Improve the Pet Garden Facilities at Quarry Bay Promenade Maximising the Use of the Pet Garden at Quarry Bay Promenade to Promote a Caring Culture for Animals in the Community Urging the Government to Promote Pet Gardens in Cultivating a Community Caring Culture for Animals

49. The agenda item was to be discussed every six months and would be discussed at the meeting in 2019.

(iii) Quarry Bay Park Phase II (Stages 2 and 3) –Progress Report Request to Develop the Open Space next to Quarry Bay Park Phase II into a Rest Garden/ Implementation of the “Temporary Community Garden Programme”

LCSD, DLO, 50. The agenda item had been discussed together with agenda item VI. The DEVB, Planning DFMC agreed to follow up this agenda item upon further progress. Department (PlanD)

(iv) Issues Concerning Pedestrians being Hit Frequently by Footballs Flying over the Fence of Chai Wan Park Soccer Pitch No. 1 (Yee Fung Street)

51. The Chairman welcomed Mr LUK Chi-kwong, Chief Leisure Manager (Hong Kong East), Ms TAM Shiu-mei, District Leisure Manager (Eastern), and Ms Maria

26 Action TANG, Deputy District Leisure Manager (District Support) Eastern of the LCSD to the meeting.

LCSD 52. After discussion, the DFMC noted the progress of the works and agreed to follow up the agenda item upon further progress.

(v) Requesting to Review the Use of Shau Kei Wan Market to Provide Residents with Appropriate District Facilities Future Development of Shau Kei Wan Market Requesting a Change in Use of Shau Kei Wan Market

53. The DFMC noted the written replies of the FEHD and the GPA.

54. Mr CHUI Chi-kin asked the departments concerned whether they had confirmed the schedule for the long-term use of Shau Kei Wan Market.

FEHD, GPA, 55. After discussion, the DFMC agreed to follow up the agenda item upon further PlanD progress, and asked the departments concerned to attend the next meeting.

(vi) Concern over the Use of Maintenance Materials at the Jogging Track of Quarry Bay Park Requesting the Departments Concerned to Research on a Practical and Effective Mitigation Measure As Soon As Possible

56. The Chairman welcomed Mr LUK Chi-kwong, Chief Leisure Manager (Hong Kong East), Ms TAM Shiu-mei, District Leisure Manager (Eastern), and Ms Maria TANG, Deputy District Leisure Manager (District Support) Eastern of the LCSD to the meeting.

57. Mr Andrew CHIU said that residents had reported the accumulation of moss on the cycling track and jogging track of the venue concerned. He said that this affected the safety of users and asked the LCSD when it would completely replace the materials of the facilities.

58. Ms Maria TANG of the LCSD said that at a DFMC meeting in 2016, the ArchSD had stated that based on the use of the materials at that time, it was estimated that the re-paving works would be carried out after six to seven years. Therefore, the LCSD expected the relevant works to be carried out within five years.

27 Action LCSD 59. After discussion, the DFMC agreed to follow up the agenda item upon further progress.

(vii) Concern about Material Safety of the Artificial Turf Pitch at Quarry Bay Park (Phase 1)

LCSD 60. After discussion, the DFMC agreed to follow up the agenda item upon further progress.

(viii) Replacement of the Children’s Playground Facilities at Greig Road Sitting-out Area

61. The Chairman welcomed Mr LUK Chi-kwong, Chief Leisure Manager (Hong Kong East), Ms TAM Shiu-mei, District Leisure Manager (Eastern), and Ms Maria TANG, Deputy District Leisure Manager (District Support) Eastern of the LCSD to the meeting.

62. Mr Patrick LEUNG understood that the LCSD had pledged to include the children’s playground facilities at the aforementioned venue in the waiting list for facility replacement in the coming year. However, he believed that some of the children’s playground facilities had been affected by Typhoon Mangkhut. Therefore, he hoped that the LCSD could make replacement as soon as possible.

63. Ms Maria TANG of the LCSD noted the views of Members.

LCSD 64. After discussion, the DFMC agreed to follow up the agenda item upon further progress.

(ix) Concern about the Impact of Insufficient Lifeguard Manpower of Leisure and Cultural Services Department on Swimmers’ Safety

65. Mr CHUI Chi-kin said that Mr KU Kwai-yiu was concerned about the frequent closure of the leisure pool and diving pool of Chai Wan Swimming Pool in July and August. In addition, he asked about the follow-up of the inclusion of lifeguards in the civil service establishment.

66. Ms Maria TANG of the LCSD said that the LCSD had to close the leisure pool and diving pool of Chai Wan Swimming Pool for safety reasons due to the shortage of lifeguards. In addition, the LCSD would continue to study ways to include lifeguards in the civil service establishment.

28 Action

LCSD 67. After discussion, the DFMC agreed to follow up the agenda item upon further progress.

(x) Request to Follow-up on the Impact of Anglers at Aldrich Bay Promenade on Other Users

68. The Chairman welcomed Mr LUK Chi-kwong, Chief Leisure Manager (Hong Kong East), Ms TAM Shiu-mei, District Leisure Manager (Eastern), and Ms Maria TANG, Deputy District Leisure Manager (District Support) Eastern of the LCSD to the meeting.

69. Mr George LAM said that the angling situation at the aforementioned venue had improved greatly. As such, he suggested the DFMC cease following up this agenda item.

70. After discussion, the DFMC agreed to cease following up this agenda item.

XIV. Date of the Next Meeting

71. The meeting ended at 5:10 pm. The 6th meeting of the DFMC would be held at 2:30 pm on 13 November 2018 (Tuesday).

Eastern District Council Secretariat November 2018