Decades of planning delays spark calls for HK's 5-year plan

Hong Kong's development planning has long been criticised for its slow pace. A lawmaker and a former principal official hope after formulating the "Hong Kong Five-Year Plan," the government could accelerate development and improve people's livelihoods.

As early as 1999, there have been talks by the District Council to develop this 3.8-hectare plot of land next to Tiu Keng Leng MTR Station in Tseung Kwan O into a park.

However, for nearly twenty years, it has been left idle, which has led to problems including mosquito infestations.

The latest estimate indicates that facilities will only begin to open in phases four years from now -- in 2030.

Lawmaker Christine Fong, who also serves as a Sai Kung District Councillor, says the development progress of the Tiu Keng Leng Park is "slower than ants." She says children who moved to the neighbourhood back then are now in university -- and the construction still hasn't started.

It's not just the park that reflects Hong Kong's planning pace.

The 8-kilometre Central Kowloon Bypass connecting Yau Tsim Mong to Kwun Tong District began its planning process as early as 1991. It is only expected to be fully operational mid-year -- that is 35 years later.

The government has enacted dedicated legislation for the Northern Metropolis, hoping to accelerate planning and development.

Fong says she hopes authorities will pay equal attention to livelihood projects outside economic development and the Northern Metropolis. And she hopes the Hong Kong five-year plan can include these social elements to cater to citizens' needs.

Former Secretary for Security Lai Tung-kwok, meanwhile, believes after formulating the Hong Kong Five-Year Plan, all policies and measures will be implemented more rapidly.

Lai says the five-year plan helps outline timetables and clear goals to expedite development with less need for repeated studies and consultations.

When asked if civil servants can help efficiently implement the Hong Kong Five-Year Plan, Lai says the crux lies in the department heads -- who should lead their team more effectively.