HK to construct new columbarium at Siu Ho Wan

The government is planning to develop a new columbarium at Siu Ho Wan on Lantau Island, which will provide about 33,500 niches. The construction work is expected to be completed within four years.

According to government documents submitted to the Legco, the site will be located at the western part of Sham Shui Kok Drive and near the North Lantau Refuse Transfer Station.

Authorities are now seeking HK$182 million in funding to carry out site formation for the columbarium development and the construction of ancillary infrastructures and facilities.

With a growing and aging population in Hong Kong, the government said the number of deaths and cremations has been rising year by year, along with growing demand from the public for facilities and services for handling the cremated ashes of the deceased.

The Tsuen Wan District Council and the Islands District Council have both consented to the project outline in 2018.

Traffic impact assessment study has also been completed by relevant authorities. The study shows that the additional traffic and pedestrian volume arising from the proposed columbarium development during the Ching Ming and Chung Yeung Festivals could be managed with the implementation of appropriate traffic and transport arrangements.