Kai Tak Sports Park prepping for drills, trials

Ayra Wang

Drills and trial operations will soon take place at Kai Tak Sports Park, which will hold a large-scale opening ceremony in the first quarter of next year, says Chief Executive John Lee Ka-Chiu.

Lee said on Facebook he led principal officials - including Chief Secretary Eric Chan Kwok-ki, Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung and Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung Yun-hung - to check on the park's progress last Tuesday.

"I have instructed the inter-departmental task force to ensure that construction work will finish on schedule to consolidate Hong Kong's status as a mega-event center," Lee said. "I reminded them to pay attention to details of the construction plan and improve on dealing with changes to ensure a smooth operation after the park opens."

In his police address, Lee proposed that the mega project - which includes a 50,000-seat main stadium - to be a part of promoting sports in a more elite and professional way.

He said construction work on the main structure of the stadium, the indoor sports center and the public sports ground has been completed, with decorations on the inside and landscape ongoing.

"Upon completion, the park will be a new landmark in Hong Kong, combining large-scale sports events and leisure and entertainment," Lee said.

"I hope the park can bring positive synergistic effects to promote the development of sports, tourism and performance industries, bringing great economic benefits to the city."

Lee also said several local and overseas events agencies plan to rent facilities in the park.

A grand opening will be held in the first quarter, with local celebrities and sports stars performing.

ayra.wang@singtaonewscorp.com

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