Farewell to colorful facades and vintage stores as sources say Choi Hung Estate to be redeveloped

Residents may find it hard to let go and begin longing for bygone days as the 60-year-old Choi Hung Estate is to be demolished and redeveloped in stages, according to sources. 

Choi Hung Estate is one of the oldest public housing estates in the city, with a total of 11 buildings, each named after a color. The buildings were finished between 1962 and 1964 - with 7,455 units and residences of around 17,000 people. 

It was learned that the government planned to announce the redevelopment details at the end of the year, which means the nostalgic stores and colorful facades could be bidding goodbye to Hongkongers. 

Lau, a shop owner in the estate, said she is still surprised about the news even though the authorities have been discussing it for a long time. 

"I am affectionate to this place as I witnessed some children grow up and even get to see some have married," she added. 

"I've been here for 40 years, and the security is good," a resident surnamed Chan said. "The neighborhood is kind." 

Another resident surnamed Tsoi said some hoped the estate could be rebuilt sooner as the structures are over 60 years old, which could pose safety risks. 

"Everything comes and goes," said a shopkeeper in the estate. "If the old ones are not demolished, how can new ones come?"