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The Transport and Housing Bureau and the Highways Department today (February 21) launched the three-month "Our Future Railway" Stage 2 Public Engagement exercise.
Members of the public are welcome to submit views on the concepts of seven local enhancement schemes for existing railway lines.
The Government commissioned a consultant in March 2011 to conduct a study for the review and update of the Railway Development Strategy 2000, with a view to updating the long-term railway development blueprint for Hong Kong's future. The study reviews the railway schemes identified in the Railway Development Strategy 2000 which are not yet implemented and other railway proposals suggested by the Government or members of the public.
Taking into account the consultant's findings, the Government conducted the Stage 1 Public Engagement exercise from April to July 2012 which featured conceptual schemes of three major regional railway corridors for public discussion.
The Stage 2 Public Engagement exercise features concepts of seven local enhancement schemes, including parallel lines, extensions, spur lines and new stations of the existing railway lines.
The seven local enhancement schemes are:
(1) North Island Line;
(2) Siu Sai Wan Line;
(3) South Island Line (West);
(4) Tuen Mun South Extension;
(5) Adding Hung Shui Kiu Station;
(6) Tung Chung West Extension; and
(7) Adding Kwu Tung Station.
Upon completion of the Stage 2 Public Engagement exercise, the consultant will optimise the planning for major regional railway corridors and local enhancement schemes, based on the views collected at both stages of the exercise.
The entire study is expected to be finished in 2013. The Government will consider the consultant's final recommendations in the light of the development progress of new development areas and explore the way forward for different railway projects with a view to reporting the results to the public in 2014.
The Stage 2 Public Engagement exercise commenced today and will last until May 20. The Government will conduct roving exhibitions and public forums in different districts. Members of the public may visit the Public Enquiry Service Centres of the Home Affairs Department or public libraries in districts to obtain the consultation publications. They may also access the information at the dedicated website (www.ourfuturerailway.hk).
They are welcome to join the public forums specifically conducted for the purpose (phone registration at 3922 9777 or online registration is advised). They may also forward their comments direct through the following channels:
Website: www.ourfuturerailway.hk
Email: enquiry@ourfuturerailway.hk
Fax: 3922 9713
Post: Railway Development Office, Highways Department
1/F, Ho Man Tin Government Offices
88 Chung Hau Street, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon
(Please state "Our Future Railway" on the
envelope)
Ends/Thursday, February 21, 2013
Issued at HKT 16:29
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