Draft maps of Plover Cove Country Park and Lantau South Country Park for public inspection
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A spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said that the draft maps were prepared by the Country and Marine Parks Authority for the incorporation of the country park enclaves of Fan Kei Tok and Sai Lau Kong into the Plover Cove Country Park, and a site near Nam Shan into the Lantau South Country Park.
Located to the north of Wu Kau Tang, the 4.6 hectare enclave at Fan Kei Tok comprises two parcels. It is basically unspoiled and is extensively covered by woodland, which supports many species of native plants and butterflies. In addition, the site has good landscape quality and complements the natural beauty of the adjacent country park. The Wu Kau Tang Country Trail traverses the site at its western side, which facilitates the outdoor recreation activities of the public in the area including hiking and nature appreciation.
Situated on the north-eastern coast of the Plover Cove Country Park, Sai Lau Kong has a completely different topography. It is a seaside enclave at a headland bounded by the Yan Chau Tong Marine Park and Ngau Shi Wu Wan and adjoining the country park on the landward side. About 1.9 hectares in size, the site has a rural and calm setting, and accommodates a small fishing village with a few inhabitants. It is also endowed with natural elements, including a large coverage of woodland, sandy shores and a natural coastline, which together create a site of enchanting landscape quality. It blends in well with the surrounding country park and marine park areas.
The site near Nam Shan is about 5.9 hectares in size with two-thirds of its area being covered by natural woodland. The remaining part of the site is covered with active agricultural land and a few village buildings. It lies close to two popular hiking trails and has an overall natural appearance that complements the surrounding country park area.
The spokesman said, "The Government is determined to protect our natural resources. Incorporating the enclaves as part of the country parks will help to conserve the natural environment, protect the diverse habitats and preserve the scenic landscape. It can also improve the overall management of the sites."
Copies of the draft maps are ready for public inspection free-of-charge for 60 days at the designated offices during office hours as listed in the gazette notice. Details are available on the department's website: www.afcd.gov.hk/english/country/cou_wha/gazette_notice.html.
"Any person aggrieved by any of the draft maps may send a written statement of objection, stating the nature of and the reasons for the objection, and proposed alteration to the draft maps, if any, to the Country and Marine Parks Authority and the Secretary of the Country and Marine Parks Board at 5/F, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon, within 60 days from the date of gazettal," the spokesman said.
Copies of the draft maps are also available for sale to the public at $41 each at the AFCD Headquarters, 5/F, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon.
Ends/Friday, September 30, 2016
Issued at HKT 9:12
Issued at HKT 9:12
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