Hung Hom yacht club vision to attract big spenders

Jamie Liu

Today's budget announcement will propose the construction of a yacht club with more than 100 berths in Hung Hom which would be aimed at boosting yacht tourism and attracting high-end consumers, according to sources.

The budget will detail plans for the waterfront site near Hung Hom MTR station, sources told Sing Tao Daily, sister publication of The Standard.

These include potential commercial and residential developments.

MTR Corp has reportedly initiated a study on the planning and development of the 10-hectare Hung Hom site and is expected to submit land-use proposals by mid-year.

Timothy Chui Ting-pong, executive director of the Hong Kong Tourism Association, expressed support for the Hung Hom development, which would go well with the area's abundance of hotels and tourism facilities.

"We can conduct more yachting activities, especially along the Hung Hom waterfront, which connects to Tsim Sha Tsui and Kowloon," he said.

"This development can provide diverse entertainment options for both tourists and local residents."

Also, sources said the budget will feature plans for stores offering light meals or drinks along Victoria Harbour, with promenades planned for Central, Wan Chai and Tsim Sha Tsui.

The government intends to invite experienced caterers, including operators from the West Kowloon Cultural District, to join the initiative, which has the possibility of establishing restaurants in the long term.

Lawmaker Frankie Ngan Man-yu welcomed the proposals, noting that smart vending machines that sell snacks, drinks and "pop-up" products are well received at waterfronts in Wan Chai, Kwun Tong and Cha Kwo Ling.

jamie.liu@singtaonewscorp.com