West Kowloon new landing facility to open in Q4: tourism chief

The Southern Landing Facility in West Kowloon Cultural District(WKCD) is set to open in the fourth quarter this year, as authorities look into starting new ferry routes between West Kowloon and Central, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui announced.

Speaking at the Legislative Council on Wednesday, Law said the new waterfront facility, located opposite to M+ Museum, will also serve as the new berthing point for Water Taxi services, relocating from the existing New Yau Ma Tei Typhoon Shelter. 

Law added that the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority is finalizing operational details, including public vessel booking arrangements, to maximize the facility’s efficiency.

She revealed that the authority is working with the Transport Department to study the feasibility of launching new ferry routes between West Kowloon and Central. 

Discussions are also underway with Water Taxi operators and industry stakeholders on potential route expansions.

The Finance Committee approved HK$425 million in funding for the WKCD’s public infrastructure projects in 2022, including the construction of the Southern Landing Facility.

Tourism sector lawmaker Perry Yiu Pak-leung raised concerns about pedestrian accessibility, citing complaints over the poor walking experience from the Xiqu Centre to the M+ Museum along Austin Road West. 

He urged authorities to prioritize developing a waterfront promenade to enhance connectivity within the cultural district.

In response, Law noted that 1.2 kilometers of West Kowloon’s eventual 2km waterfront promenade is open, with an additional 140-meter section expected to open by 2027.

However, the remaining part, now used as a construction channel for barges transporting waste and underground utility works, cannot be opened early due to technical challenges tied to ongoing development in Zone 2 of WKCD.

(Ayra Wang)