The government has halted construction of flats in Kwun Tong under its Starter Homes Scheme following an inspection that revealed missing essential reinforcement bars. Additionally, a report has been requested to address these concerns.
The Buildings Department, responding to media inquiries today, disclosed that they were alerted in late August about potential substandard installation of reinforcement bars at a worksite on Anderson Road.
Since September, the department has conducted four inspections at the site. Notable issues were identified on September 26, when it was observed that workers on the 29th floor of block three were bending bars, and six of the beams had fewer steel bars than the building plans required.
Despite these findings, the department noted that there is no immediate threat to the overall structural integrity of the building.
Due to the lack of a satisfactory response from the structural engineer and the contractor's representative, the department has demanded a comprehensive investigation and repair report. Additionally, they have requested that the engineer perform further tests on other floors of the building.
The entire project was put on hold last Saturday, September 28, according to the department.
The department emphasized that construction will only resume once it is satisfied with the corrective actions, investigation reports, and improvements in site monitoring.
A spokesperson also mentioned that the department is scrutinizing seven other projects by the contractor and will intensify quality and safety inspections at these sites.
In response, CK Asset stated that the reinforcement work on the block is ongoing, and the on-site engineer has yet to perform inspections. The developer has also directed its consultants to thoroughly understand the building layout to address the issue effectively and ensure safety.
