Northern Metropolis and Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands
141. As a new engine for the future development of Hong Kong, the Northern Metropolis serves as an important base for promoting the development of I&T industries, supporting Hong Kong in establishing a new industry pattern of "South-North dual engine (finance-innovation and technology)". It also facilitates high-quality economic co-operation between Hong Kong and the GBA, forging an important platform for Hong Kong to better integrate into the overall development of our country. Furthermore, more land resources will be released to provide more quality living space to the public.
142. In the 2022 Policy Address, the Chief Executive proposed to establish a Steering Committee on the Northern Metropolis and an Advisory Committee on the Northern Metropolis to strengthen the institutional governance for the development of the area. The latter is to be chaired by me. The Advisory Committee, with experts and stakeholders in the community, will tender advice and suggestions for taking forward the project. Meanwhile, the Government and relevant Mainland authorities have set up a task force to strengthen communication and collaboration on matters related to the development of the Northern Metropolis. In addition, the Government is making preparations for the establishment of a Northern Metropolis Co-ordination Office to take forward related work.
143. Apart from pressing ahead with projects already under construction in the Northern Metropolis, such as those in the large-scale New Development Areas (NDAs) in Kwu Tung North/Fanling North, Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen and Yuen Long South, we are, in parallel, taking forward the planning and engineering studies of other development projects. We will start off by commencing consultation in the second quarter on the development proposals and land use planning of San Tin Technopole, the flagship I&T project in the region covering 150 hectares of new land for I&T uses. On another front, the first three buildings of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park in the Lok Ma Chau Loop will be gradually completed from end-2024 onwards and the site formation works of the first batch of new land for I&T uses at San Tin Technopole will commence in the same year. The additional space made available will facilitate the recruitment of Mainland and overseas I&T enterprises to establish a presence in Hong Kong.
144. Providing around four million square metres of commercial gross floor area and about 200 000 jobs, the 1 000-hectare Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands built by reclamation can expand the scope and capacity of the development of Hong Kong and support the development of the third central business district. The Government has put forth preliminary proposals on the scope of reclamation, land use, transport infrastructure network and financial arrangements regarding the artificial islands, and has commenced public engagement activities. Upon finalisation of a more detailed planning and design concept, the Government will contemplate appropriate financial arrangements for the artificial islands project, examine various financing options and their economic benefits, and explore the optimal package with the community.
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