Border economy envisioned for N Metropolis

Stacy Shi

Northern Metropolis will aim to foster a border economy, set up emerging food-related industries and provide at least 150,000 mostly private flats, according to Permanent Secretary for Development Doris Ho Pui-ling.

The government has proposed creating "priority development areas" - including a commercial and residential zone near Heung Yuen Wai port, where the Man Kam To Food Control Office will be relocated - and establishing abattoirs and hydroponic farms to create a comprehensive food industry chain, Ho said yesterday.

"The government also proposes to retain all 21 existing villages in the area, and will plan open spaces and green belts in the vicinity to avoid high density," she said.

Northern Metropolis's new areas will provide over 150,000 residential units in total, which will mainly be private, alongside shopping malls and offices - with the aim of attracting high-end talent from the mainland.

Locals will benefit from the diversified job opportunities that will be generated, she added.

Regarding the downsizing of the 52-hectare Ma Tso Lung project, Ho said about 10,000 private residential units proposed in the area are sufficient for talent in the Lok Ma Chau Loop.

Our Hong Kong Foundation researcher Calvin Au said he is most concerned about whether the government has correctly positioned the industries so they can capitalize on the Northern Metropolis' geographical advantage.

Au said the Heung Yuen Wai port area, with considerable passenger and cargo flows and the future relocation of the food-inspection facilities, will be suitable for the border economy.

He also supported making private flats the mainstay of the residential units in the development.

Addressing the housing needs of professionals in the area should be the priority to foster economic growth, he added.

Au said land demand for public housing in Hong Kong has been largely met, hence using the Heung Yuen Wai port area for the purpose is not required.

He also urged flexibility in determining the proportion of private and public housing based on the locality's condition.

stacy.shi@singtaonewscorp.com