Applications for some 18,000 new niches open on May 13

Applications for more than 18,000 new extendable niches at Wo Hop Shek Columbarium in Fanling and Cape Collinson-San Ha Columbarium in Eastern District will open from May 13 to June 12, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced on Tuesday. 

The number includes 8,000 standard niches and 40 large niches at Wo Hop Shek Columbarium Phase VI, as well as 10,000 standard niches and 60 large niches at Cape Collinson-San Ha Columbarium. 

“The initial ash interment period for the allocated public niches is 20 years and can be extended at 10-year intervals thereafter,” a spokesman for the department said. 

“Upon expiry of the interment period, the persons concerned may continue to use the allocated niche provided that he or she extends the interment period and pays the prevailing prescribed fee.” 

Applicants should only file one application form to apply for either a large or standard niche for the same deceased person. 

When applying for a large niche, applicants have to fill in the particulars of at least three deceased people. For a standard niche, applicants must fill in at least one deceased person’s particulars. 

The department said the niches will be allocated by open drawing of lots and computer random balloting, which is expected to be held in the third quarter of this year. The exact date will be announced later. 

After the balloting, applicants will be informed of the results of their applications and successful applicants will be provided with serial numbers of the designated niches allocated to them. 

Starting from May 13, the public can apply online or download the application form from the department’s website. 

They can also obtain the physical application form from the Hong Kong or Kowloon Cemeteries and Crematoria Office, District Environmental Hygiene Offices, or Home Affairs Enquiry Centres, or by fax via hotline 2841 9111.