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Following the highly anticipated debut of the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP), some have suggested transforming the nearby To Kwa Wan Typhoon Shelter into a watersports center featuring yacht and sailing activities to enhance tourism.
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The suggestions arose after several visitors said the neighboring shelter's barges were seen in the background of the photo spots at the KTSP's main stadium.
The Y.Elites Association vice chairman Jacky Ko Chung-kit believed the typhoon shelter could serve as a prime photo spot rather than having a few barge masts obstructing the view.
The To Kwa Wan Typhoon Shelter, which is almost two-thirds the size of Victoria Park, is located near Kai Tak, To Kwa Wan and Hung Hom.
Lawmaker Kitson Yang Wing-kit mentioned the lack of yacht berths in the city, noting the shelter's location could facilitate yacht docking and trading, thus strengthening the overall economy.
Yang also advocated converting the To Kwa Wan Typhoon Shelter into a watersports complex, citing the potential for tourism development.
Currently, there are dozens of barges docked at the To Kwa Wan Typhoon Shelter, and the shelter usage rate peaked by 80 percent during last year's typhoon.
The maritime services industry emphasized the need for city barges docking space owing to the challenges crew members face when replenishing, alongside the shrinking capacity for mooring barges and the increasing number of docking private yachts.
Wong Yiu-kan, the chairman of the Hong Kong Cargo Vessel-Traders' Association, emphasized the importance of promoting barges as they embody the city's rich history and culture. He pointed out that many people are captivated by these vessels, highlighting their significance in the community.
In response to inquiries, the Development Bureau said they would find a balance between boosting waterfront development and minimizing the impact on port operations.
The To Kwa Wan Typhoon Shelter has faced ongoing issues with unpleasant odors in the past. However, the department highlighted that last year marked the completion of bioremediation efforts and the rectification of sewage connections and both the odor and water quality have significantly improved, making the area suitable for dragon boat racing.
While there are currently nine yacht clubs in the city, only the ones on the Gold Coast and Discovery Bay can accommodate yachts above 60 meters.
