A pedestrian footbridge connecting International Finance Centre (ifc) and the Central Pier officially closed on February 19, sparking mixed emotions among Hongkongers as it makes way for a new harbourfront development.
The grey steel structure, which had served commuters for nearly 19 years since opening in June 2007, was decommissioned to accommodate the "Central Yards" project by Henderson Land Development. The site was granted to Henderson in 2021 for HK$50.8 billion.
A new 24-hour air-conditioned temporary walkway opened on Wednesday, offering similar connections with added art elements and semi-open views of Victoria Harbour. This too will be temporary, eventually replaced by a landscaped waterfront platform accessible through the future "Central Yards" shopping mall.
Online reactions have been divided. Many expressed nostalgia, with one netizen sharing: "I walked this way to work every day. Cherish every object while it's still there." Others recalled youthful memories of saving money by taking the ferry, or simply enjoying the unobstructed harbour view before construction hoardings were erected.
Some architectural enthusiasts appreciated the bridge's efficient truss design, describing it as "pragmatic, gets the job done."
However, others welcomed the change, calling the structure "ugly" and "out of place." One comment noted: "This bridge was known to be temporary from day one. Out with the old, in with the new."
