Policy Address

Water-friendly Culture and Activities

178.     There has been a marked improvement in the water quality of Victoria Harbour.  On completion of the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme Stage 2A this year, water quality in our harbour is expected to improve further.  I have instructed relevant bureaux to explore the feasibility of organising water sports activities in Victoria Harbour.

179.     The Government will commission a study this year on how to improve the problem of pollution and odour nuisance caused by the discharge of urban residual pollutants into urban coastal waters, so as to provide venues for water activities along waterfront areas in Kowloon West, Wan Chai and Central.

180.     Beyond Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong waters cover a large area, which can be used for promoting water recreational and sports activities and a water-friendly culture.  Relevant bureaux and departments will continue to identify desirable locations to build new water sports centres.

181.     We will adopt the concept of revitalising water bodies in large-scale drainage improvement works and planning drainage networks for NDAs so as to build a better environment for the public.  In the completed widening works of Ho Chung River in Sai Kung, ecological features were also included to beautify the river and enhance river biodiversity.

Nature Conservation and Historic Buildings

182.     Our rural areas have great conservation, ecological, visual and traditional value.  We will proactively work with NGOs to adopt a flexible approach to supporting and promoting the protection of our rural areas through harnessing the effort of the community.  I have asked the Environment Bureau, in conjunction with other relevant departments, to map out a plan.  At the same time, we will continue to assess the suitability of incorporating enclaves into country parks in accordance with the established principles and criteria to better protect areas with high landscape or recreation value.  We will also manage these areas with an innovative mindset.

183.     We are formulating the first Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan for Hong Kong with a view to stepping up conservation efforts and supporting the sustainable development of Hong Kong in the next five years.

184.     The Government plans to designate the waters around the Brothers Islands as a marine park and is carrying out preparatory work.

185.     We will study the implementation of the recommendations submitted by the Antiquities Advisory Board on the built heritage conservation policy, including making preparations for the establishment of a built heritage conservation fund.

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