10 private-sector pedestrian link projects underway after land premium waiver

A total of 10 pedestrian links set to be developed by the private sector, which is exempt from the land premium payable for lease modification, will be constructed gradually, according to Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn Hon-ho.

Her remarks followed the launch of the Two Queensway Bridge, which connects Pacific Place and Harcourt Garden and was constructed by Swire Properties.

In a blog post on Sunday, Linn noted that the project showed the joint effort between the government and the private sector on pedestrian link projects.

To encourage private sector initiatives to enhance walkability, if private landowners propose constructing footbridges or subways at their own cost in accordance with the planned network of pedestrian links, the government will implement appropriate measures including waiving land premium for any necessary lease modification to facilitate early implementation of the proposals.

Intended private landowners are responsible for the approved projects' design, construction, management, maintenance and related costs, ensuring 24-hour barrier-free public access.

Linn said the sector welcomes the incentives, while 10 other related projects -- located in Kowloon East, Wan Chai, Tsim Sha Tsui, Causeway Bay and Hung Hom -- have been approved by the authorities and would start construction works gradually.

She pledged that the authorities will continue to optimize policies to encourage and support more private developers in self-funding the construction of pedestrian links or tunnels.