Govt plans upgrade for Sai Kung Yim Tin Tsai Pier to boost access

The Hong Kong government, through its 2017 “Piers Improvement Programme,” is set to enhance several remote public piers, including the Yim Tin Tsai Pier in Sai Kung, to better serve residents and visitors heading to scenic outing spots and natural heritage sites. 

The Civil Engineering and Development Department recently submitted plans to the Sai Kung District Council, highlighting the need for upgrades due to the pier’s current facilities struggling to accommodate the surge of holiday and festival visitors.

The proposed improvements include constructing a pedestrian walkway, a movable landing gangway, and a pile-supported floating platform, designed to increase berthing capacity without requiring extensive reconstruction of the existing pier. 

Authorities believe this approach will minimize disruption to the pier’s operations during construction, eliminating the need for temporary berthing facilities.

The project falls outside the scope of the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance, but the department is conducting a preliminary environmental review to assess potential impacts and necessary mitigation measures. 

During construction, contractors will monitor environmental effects and implement appropriate safeguards based on the review’s findings, aiming to keep impacts at acceptable levels. 

Regular site inspections will ensure these measures and site management practices are effectively carried out.