The Planning Department has started consultations with stakeholders on eight draft Town Planning Board Guidelines on new procedures and requirements for the implementation of the Town Planning (Amendment) Ordinance 2004. The process will continue until mid-November.

The amendment, passed by the Legislative Council on July 7, aims to enhance the transparency of the planning system and streamline the town planning process. It will come into operation on a date to be appointed by the Secretary for Housing, Planning & Lands.

The department said new and revised Town Planning Board Guidelines will need to be promulgated to facilitate implementation of the ordinance.

Main points

The main subjects covered by the guidelines are:

* submission and publication requirements of the new plan-making process and various planning applications;

* owner consent and notification requirements for planning applications;

* submission of further information by applicants and proponents;

* request for deferment, renewal of and extension of time-limited conditions for temporary permission;

* extension of time for commencement of development; and,

* the new Class A and Class B amendments.

A wide spectrum of stakeholder groups involved or interested in planning and development will be consulted. Their feedback will be reported to the board for consideration before the guidelines are finalised for promulgation.

Public forum to be held

A public forum has been scheduled on October 19 and briefing sessions will be organised. The consultation paper and the eight draft guidelines have been uploaded to the Planning Department's website.