From heavens to hells: tenants rate HK's worst public housing estate

Public housing estates across the city can represent a tale of two worlds due to varying surrounding facilities, with residents taking to social media to vote which estate deserves the title of "worst".

The discussion originated from a Facebook post titled "Shek Wai Kok Estate is definitely the worst public housing in the city due to its accessibility." Located in the northeastern part of Tsuen Wan, the poster criticized its insufficient transportation links.

Some commenters agreed, describing the quest for quality dining options as a considerable challenge, while others defended the sufficient amenities despite its aging infrastructure.

Shek Wai Kok vs Cheung Shan Estate

The post quickly turned into a "nomination" for the worst public housing estate, with users comparing Shek Wai Kok Estate to nearby Cheung Shan Estate, which some deemed worse due to even less accessible transport options. 

Commenters highlighted that Shek Wai Kok benefits from its proximity to Luk Yeung Sun Chuen, while referring Cheung Shan Estate as a "nightmare" owing to its remoteness.

With a growing senior population in Cheung Shan Estate, several users pointed out the limited options available for elderly residents seeking access to fresh groceries and essential services. The area reportedly features only a fast-food restaurant, a supermarket, an elderly care facility, and two convenience stores.

Conversely, some argued that the flats in Cheung Shan Estate are spacious and benefit from good air quality, with comments also highlighting the nearby Shing Mun Valley Park.

Nothing in Chak On Estate?

Additionally, Shek Kip Mei's Chak On Estate also made to the list, with residents asserting that the neighborhood offers little more than a convenience store and a solitary restaurant.

A respondent remarked that the supermarket had closed down, leaving only one dining option.

Another user remarked that the supermarket has been closed down with one restaurant left. 

Many users echoed the shorts about Chak On Estate, stating that shopping for food requires a long walk of almost half an hour, compounded by inadequate transportation alternatives with only one bus route traveling to Mong Kok. 

Kowloon nominees

In Kowloon, Lai Yiu Estate and nearby Cho Yiu Estate were criticized for their inconvenient transport links.

Other nominees included Sau Mau Ping Estate in Kwun Tong, with a resident humorously noting "it was on the top of the city, even a tsunami would leave no mark".

Additionally, Choi Fai Estate in Wong Tai Sin faced scrutiny for having only a convenience store, requiring a long trek up a steep street for daily necessities. Some residents argued that while the location is quiet and peaceful, it can be tough for the elderly.

The remaining matches in Kowloon included Fu Shan Estate in Diamond Hill for its unfavorable location and On Yam Estate in North Kwai Chung for inaccessibility.

Debates on New Territories public housing 

In the New Territories, Tuen Mun's Yip Wong Estate was flagged for poor transport, while a resident noted it depends on the location of the blocks as he only takes a ten-minute walk to the Tuen Mun station. 

The list went on to Yuen Long's Long Shin Estate, Tai Po's Fu Tip Estate,  Tin Shiu Wai's Tin Yan Estate, Sha Tin's Sun Tin Wai Estate, Tuen Mun's Po Tin Estate and Tin King Estate for lack of transportation and amenities. 

Joy and sorrow in Hong Kong and Island District

While some residents highlighted the lack of transportation in remote estates like Fung Wah Estate in Chai Wan, Lai Tak Tsuen in Tai Hang, Lung Tin Estate in Tai O, and Cheung Kwai Estate in Cheung Chau, others expressed satisfaction with the better air quality and suburban accessibility.

Despite the pros and cons of public housing, several online users encouraged residents to appreciate the advantages of living in public housing.