The Leisure & Cultural Services Department said today that it has decided on a simple design for the Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade to maintain it as a passive public open space.
The decision was made after the majority of respondents to a public engagement exercise held last year said they preferred fewer structures to be built on the promenade so people can stroll on a more spacious area and enjoy unobstructed views of Victoria Harbour.
The respondents also wanted less time to be spent on renovating the promenade.
The simplified design, which does not require further approval by the Town Planning Board, will keep all trees in the area intact. Apart from the department's existing food and beverage outlet, no additional structure such as the proposed film gallery, observation decks and extra food and beverage outlets will be built.
Only basic improvements will be carried out including the refurbishment of dilapidated railings and floor tiles, while ancillary facilities will be upgraded, such as additional parking spaces for coaches and a new toilet block. The promenade will continue to be managed by the department once the work is complete.
For the Avenue of Stars and Salisbury Garden, green features and outdoor seating will be added to transform the area into a vibrant open space with rich cultural ambience, enhancing their synergy with neighbouring cultural facilities such as the Museum of Art and the Cultural Centre.
Mobile food trucks or refreshment kiosks might also be considered to provide simple food and drinks.
The adoption of a simple design is expected to reduce by half the initial two-year promenade closure, meeting public aspirations and alleviating inconvenience.
The department is committed to collaborating with the Harbourfront Commission and district councils to enhance the Tsim Sha Tsui East waterfront and other districts for residents and visitors' enjoyment.
