The Planning Department and the Lands Department today said that they accept the recommendations set out by the Ombudsman’s Office in an investigative report into their enforcement of regulations against unauthorised land developments.

The two departments will follow up on the recommendations to strengthen enforcement and enhance relevant procedures.

They said they were also pleased to note that the Ombudsman’s Office considered that they have tackled unauthorised development cases according to their purview and statutory powers.

The Planning Department said it will continue to curb unauthorised developments under the Town Planning Ordinance to meet public expectations regarding protection of the rural environment.

With the introduction of a “Regulated Area” designation following amendments to the Ordinance, the extent of land subject to enforcement by the Planning Department will likely expand, it added, stressing that it plans to streamline its enforcement procedures to better handle the increased workload.

Meanwhile, the Lands Department said it will step up enforcement against unlawful occupation of government land and breaches of leases on private land, and prioritise the handling of cases on the basis of risk.

It will also review existing guidelines and enhance staff training to facilitate timely follow-up on cases of non-compliance and lease breaches.

The two departments will also strengthen collaboration, which will include conducting joint enforcement operations against large-scale unauthorised developments through a pilot scheme, and establishing a high-level communication platform to reinforce their co-operation in enforcement work.