New HK Island transit line on track for 2027 construction start

The government aims to finalise the planning and design details for the South Island Line (West) within this year and begin advance construction works in 2027, according to Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan.

“We target to announce the latest implementation plan for the project this year,” the transport chief said.

In a written reply to a lawmaker’s inquiry on Wednesday (October 15), Chan said the authorities had briefed the Legislative Council Subcommittee on the project’s development in December and January.

The preliminary alignment of the line is about 7.5 kilometres long and will pass through key innovation and technology hubs, including Cyberport and the University of Hong Kong.

The proposed railway will also provide convenient connections between MTR Wong Chuk Hang Station on the South Island Line and HKU Station on the Island Line.

“We are continuing to evaluate the project’s financial arrangements, including optimising the alignment and improving cost-effectiveness,” Chan said.

She added that the government will conduct a statutory environmental impact assessment and evaluate the project’s effect on traffic for other road users.

In addition, the authorities will consult stakeholders and finalise details of the scheme, covering system design, cost, financial arrangements, and management model.