HK first district-based community to pioneer Victoria Cove vision

Most projects within the city’s first “district-based new community” in To Kwa Wan have commenced construction and are expected to be completed over the next two to three years, according to Urban Renewal Authority Managing Director Wai Chi-sing.

In a Sunday blog post, Wai said the initiative will serve as a pioneering model for the broader "Victoria Cove Area" vision, setting a benchmark for integrated urban renewal.

Located at the heart of To Kwa Wan’s road network, the district-based redevelopment connects key areas including Ko Shan Theatre and King's Park High Level Service Reservoir Playground green belt to the west, the To Kwa Wan MTR station and Kai Tak Development Area to the north, the waterfront promenade and Hoi Sham Park to the east, and Hung Hom and Whampoa to the south.

Wai emphasized that this marks the first time a district-based approach has been adopted, combining systematic planning, unified design, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and co-creation. 

The initiative integrates eight adjacent urban renewal projects managed by seven different developers, who must adhere to guidelines in connectivity, accessibility, liveability, community vibrancy, and smart building and facility management.

Key improvements include optimizing pedestrian and traffic networks by setting buildings further back to widen sidewalks, converting roads into walkways, constructing new vehicle routes, and introducing the area’s first shared parking facility to separate pedestrians and vehicles. 

Over 100 new trees will be planted alongside preserved existing ones to create a tree-lined boulevard.

Wai described the project as a vital part of the Victoria Cove Area vision, requiring bold planning, innovation, and stakeholder collaboration. 

Though he will soon step down as URA head, he pledged to continue supporting the initiative as a resident.

(Ayra Wang)