An application to hold the "bun scrambling" activity on Cheung Chau has been rejected because of safety reasons.

The Leisure & Cultural Services Department said the decision was reached after detailed study of the proposal and consultation with other government departments.

A proposal to stage the activity at Pak Tai Temple Playground was submitted by the Cheung Chau Bun Festival Organising committee on May 4.

In the past, the committee has been granted permission to stage the Festival at the playground, including the traditional procession and the distribution of buns.

This year, approval has already been given for the traditional procession to go ahead.
 

Re-consideretion possible
The dapartmenet said if the organising committee can submit a fresh proposal which meets the following requirements, it will re-consider its application for staging the "bun scrambling" activity.
 
The requirements are: 

* to appoint an authorised person to submit documents certifying the bun towers are structurally sound to allow the "bun scrambling" activity to be conducted in a safe manner;

* to take out a public liability insurance with sufficient coverage; and,

* to submit a comprehensive and effective proposal on safety measures to safeguard climbers and other participants of the activity.

This is considered absolutely necessary in view of the accident in 1978 which saw the collapse of bun towers and numerous casualties. It is also in accordance with the existing safety requirements for activities of a similar nature.