(Policy Address) Invigorating Island South

The HKSAR government proposes to implement the Invigorating Island South initiative to develop the Southern District into a place full of vibrancy, vigor and velocity for people to work, live, explore new ideas and have fun, says Carrie Lam.

A proposal will be formulated for the rebirth of Ocean Park, with emphasis on enhancing and leveraging its strengths in education and conservation, making use of its natural landscape, strategic seaside location and the Water World which will open next summer to offer diversified entertainment, leisure and travel experiences.

The Jumbo Floating Restaurant, which is a historic landmark in Hong Kong, will be revitalized. The owner of the floating restaurant has agreed to donate it to Ocean Park at no cost. The Government will facilitate the collaboration between Ocean Park and NGOs for the rebirth of the restaurant in the Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter on a non-profit-making basis, so that it will become a distinctive cultural heritage and tourist attraction in the Southern District, she said.

Cultural and leisure facilities in the vicinity of Aberdeen and Wong Chuk Hang will also be enhanced, including the Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter, Aberdeen Promenade and Ap Lei Chau Main Street to enable members of the public and visitors to immerse in the ambiance, history and culture of a fishing village and enjoy eco-tourism in the area.

Authorities will explore new marine tourism routes by taking advantage of the district’s seaside location with Ocean Park as the core to link up with other districts and islands, as well as exploring the expansion of the Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter area and the vessel berthing area as well as providing more landing facilities along the coastal area, Lam added.

The government will also explore the development of a water sports center at the rehabilitated Shek O Quarry site under public-private partnership to provide advanced training facilities for athletes and water sports enthusiasts