Test events and drills coming in November

Wallis Wang

The new Kai Tak Sports Park will host test events and drills starting in November before officially launching early next year, says Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu.

Major inaugurations of the stadium will be held in the first quarter when local stars are expected to perform, Lee said, adding that about 50 companies or organizations have expressed interest in renting the venue.

Lee said Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan Kwok-ki has set up an interdepartmental task force on the sports park's development while also making sure it reaps maximum economic benefits.

Lee recently led officials in inspecting the sports park, including supporting facilities, and learning about its crowd-dispersal plans.

"The Kai Tak Sports Park will hold different drills and test events before inauguration. We will adjust contingency plans and operational modes based on the drill results to ensure that large-scale events can operate smoothly in the future," he said, adding that authorities will make contingency plans under different weather conditions.

Lee believes the sports park will boost crowd entertainment, such as live performances and tourism, while also generating greater economic values.

Lawmaker Bill Tang Ka-piu, chair of a Legislative Council subcommittee on Kowloon East development, said authorities still need to improve the transport arrangements to and from the stadium. Tang noted: "It is estimated that it will take people about an hour to leave the stadium and reach a nearby MTR station. There must be room for improvement.

"[We should also examine] whether the MTR trains can handle large numbers of passengers and whether the trains will be frequent enough. If many restaurants and catering facilities can open in December, they may help divert the crowds."

Lee, meanwhile, said 1.15 million to 1.2 million mainland tourists are expected to visit Hong Kong during the National Day Golden Week holiday, when nearly 400 activities will be held.

The administration is committed to welcoming tourists, he said, adding the catering sector forecasts that the holiday will bring about HK$280 million in business.

"We will also ensure we have enough manpower at the border checkpoints on National Day as a fireworks display at night will attract many travelers," Lee said.

The Immigration Department expects some 10.03 million travelers to enter and exit Hong Kong, of which 8.54 million are expected to cross land control points.

wallis.wang@singtaonewscorp.com