Construction-designated areas under the Noise Control Ordinance will be expanded next year due to Hong Kong's development, the Environmental Protection Department says.

The new coverage includes newly developed populated built-up locations, areas where development has been actively taking place and population intake will start in a few years, and other built-up areas not yet covered.

Some areas adjoining the existing designated areas which form parts of the communities will also be included. More than 280,000 residents in the new designated areas will benefit from the proposal.

The Noise Control (Construction Work Designated Areas) (Amendment) Notice was gazetted today and will take effect January 1 to give the construction industry time to prepare.

Designated areas were first established in 1996 and expanded to the existing coverage in 2001. Under the law, construction works using powered mechanical equipment can be conducted during restricted hours only with a valid construction noise permit.