The Chief Executive in Council today authorised the Northern Link (NOL) Main Line railway scheme, in accordance with the Railways Ordinance.

The Government outlined that the NOL Main Line will become the main transportation backbone of the Northern Metropolis, unleashing the development potential of land along it. It will also connect the existing Tuen Ma Line and the East Rail Line, forming a railway loop that links up the New Territories and the Kowloon urban area, thereby substantially improving the existing railway network.

When the NOL Main Line comes into operation, the expected travel time between Kam Sheung Road Station and Kwu Tung Station is expected to be substantially reduced from the current 60 to 80 minutes during peak hours to about 12 minutes.

The Government and the MTR Corporation (MTRC) have to date collected public views on the NOL Main Line project through various channels. This includes consulting the North District Council and the Yuen Long District Council, holding discussions with relevant rural committees and stakeholders, and organising various publicity activities in the community. The public is generally supportive of the NOL Main Line project.

The original plan for the NOL Main Line was published in the Government Gazette on October 6, 2023, with two subsequent amendments being made. The first amendment and a correction to the scheme were published on May 3 last year, and the second amendment was published on August 30.

The Government noted that all objections not subsequently withdrawn have been submitted to the Executive Council for consideration.

It added that during implementation of the NOL Main Line project, the MTRC will continue to maintain close communication with relevant stakeholders. Furthermore, the MTRC is also required to comply with the conditions stipulated in the environmental permit issued by the Director of Environmental Protection.