The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Housing Authority:

     In order to cope with the increased public housing production and to expedite the construction process, the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) has introduced a "Design-and-Build" procurement model, with two "Design-and-Build" public housing projects scheduled for tendering out this year. 

     A spokesman for the HA said today (March 26), "Under the new 'Design-and-Build' procurement model, contractors are required to undertake design and construction in a bundle so that HA can leverage the resources and expertise of the private sector in enhancing the entire construction workflow. Over the past few months, HA has solicited the views of stakeholders in the industry through different channels such as meetings and workshops. Taking into account feedback of the industry, HA approved in mid-March the 'Design-and-Build' procurement strategy, mechanism and other details. The HA has formulated a set of fair, impartial and transparent procurement principles as well as stringent shortlisting, tendering and tender evaluation methodologies. In shortlisting tenderers, initial screening of a contractor's past performance and experience in construction contracts will be carried out. It will help strike a proper balance between adequate competition and effective use of market resources."

     The spokesman said, "In order to encourage contractors to further improve the construction workflow and enhance productivity, the HA will introduce new tender assessment items to encourage proposals for wider use of Modular Integrated Construction, Multi-trade Integrated Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing, and other innovation and technologies. In addition, tenderers can propose a shortened contract period so as to gain extra marks to increase the competitiveness of their tenders. These new attributes in tender assessment will allow contractors to contribute their expertise and strength in different areas to optimise the entire design and construction process through enhancement in productivity, efficiency and cost-effectiveness."

     "The first 'Design-and-Build' project is Kwu Tung North Area 19 Phase 2 with about 4 330 flats, which will be tendered out in June 2022. It will be followed by Tuen Mun Area 54 Site 4A (South) and Site 5 with about 2 350 flats, which will be tendered out in December 2022," the spokesman continued.

     HA looks forward to having more capable and reputable contractors joining the HA's lists of contractors, and become HA's business partners under the new procurement model. For details of registration procedures and requirements, please refer to the following link: www.housingauthority.gov.hk/en/business-partnerships/counterparty-registration/index.html

     HA will continue to maintain close communications with the industry with a view to achieving smooth implementation of the "Design-and-Build" procurement model.

Ends/Saturday, March 26, 2022
Issued at HKT 15:00

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