Government reaffirms commitment to Kau Yi Chau artificial islands project

The government is moving forward with the Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands project in a “steady and prudent” manner, Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn Hon-ho said in a written response to a lawmaker's inquiry.

Legislator Paul Tse Wai-chun referenced a commentary article on the Ta Kung Wen Wei website that labeled the project, part of the Lantau Tomorrow Vision initiative, as “a thing of the past.” 

Tse urged officials to “formally and publicly” clarify the project's future, seeking updates on its progress and financial details.

Linn dismissed the article, asserting it does not reflect the media's stance or the government's position. 

“The [Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands] is a project necessary for Hong Kong's long-term development. The government is advancing the project in a steady and prudent manner,” Linn said.

By the end of the 2024/2025 financial year, projects under the Civil Engineering and Development are projected to incur an estimated expenditure of HK$400 million. 

Linn pledged to develop implementation strategies based on the progress of various studies, considering the priority and overall deployment of the city's land creation and infrastructure initiatives.

(Jamie Liu)