Determination to build Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands remains unchanged, says Bernadette Linn

The government is still committed to pressing ahead with the Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands project, although putting back the original target year of starting reclamation by the end of 2025, said Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn Hon-ho.

Linn emphasized on the radio program that the project delay was mainly due to the government's budget deficit and in response to concerns from the community.

"We are still striving to start the reclamation works within the current term of government," she added.

Linn noted that authorities would use multiple financing options to fund the mega development plan, progressively complete the environmental assessment impact report, and commence several detailed work design studies to prepare. 

With more technical and engineering information on hand, the government will be in a better position to assess the phasing of the project and the financing arrangements, the development chief stated.

"It is estimated that by mid-2026, the information will be more detailed, including the number of phases in which the 1,000 hectares of reclamation should be carried out, and the government will make reference to different fund-raising, financial, and development options at the same time."

The artificial island is strategically located to connect Central, Hong Kong Island, and Lantau Island to the Northern Metropolis through rail and road links, according to Linn.

She added that with the large newly reclaimed area, the government could lead land supply, carrying out more forward-looking planning and more avant-garde urban design.

"As for the development of the Northern Metropolis, it will not be affected at all."

In the next 10 years, 1,400 hectares of spade-ready sites will come from the North Metropolis, mainly from Kwu Tung North and Fanling North, which have already commenced, she added.

According to Linn, the projects in Hung Shui Kiu and Yuen Long South are also underway, while the construction of San Tin Technopole will be carried out after approval for funding from the Legislative Council later this year.