The Sports Institute may be renovated, giving athletes modern and high-quality training facilities, Permanent Secretary for Home Affairs Carrie Lam says. The works are expected to start by the end of 2008.

Greeting Hong Kong's athletes returning from the Asian Games today, Mrs Lam said: "The excellent performance of our athletes has won the hearts and support of the community. Their outstanding achievements will not only boost their confidence as they set their sights on the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2009 East Asian Games, but will also inspire more young people to follow in their footsteps and take part in sports training."

The delegation won six gold, 12 silver and 10 bronze medals, Hong Kong's best result for the Asian Games.

"As the Chief Executive pledged in the Policy Address, we will support the development of sports in Hong Kong on all fronts." Mrs Lam said, adding that Hong Kong's first indoor velodrome will be built in Tseung Kwan O, while a wide range of sports facilities for training and public use will also be set up at the district level.

The proposals are part of the Government's ongoing efforts to make the city a major location for international sports events and provide athletes more opportunity for competition and exchange with their overseas counterparts.