Convenient alternative: Secretary for the Environment, Transport & Wroks Dr Sarah Liao says the West Island Line will provide a quicker and more convenient alternative to commuters in Western and Central districts.

The Executive Council has given the green light for the Mass Transit Railway West Island Line, which will extend the MTR Island Line from Sheung Wan to Kennedy Town with two intermediate stations, Sai Ying Pun and University.

Secretary for Environment, Transport & Wroks Dr Sarah Liao said the Government will now start talks with the MTRC on the detailed scope, cost and implementation programme, and ask it to proceed with further planning and preparations for the line.

She noted financing will be one of the major items to be discussed with the MTRC, adding the Government keeps an open mind on the issue.

Dr Liao stressed the negotiations will last for some time as both parties need to reach agreement on many items. She expected the construction time for the project will be seven years .

Traffic relief

The link will provide a quicker and more convenient alternative to commuters in Western and Central districts, and generate significant transport and economic benefits for the community.

Traffic congestion along the main corridors in Western District is prevalent at present, with jams along Queen's Road Central and Des Voeux Road Central during peak hours.

Travelling by road-based transport for the 2.8km between Kennedy Town and Sheung Wan takes about 15 to 25 minutes during rush hours. When the line is in place, the journey time by MTR will be eight minutes.

For the proposed South Island Line, its way forward will be considered in the light of the results of the Planning Department's review on the planning of tourism and commercial development in the Southern District and the Government's consideration of Ocean Park's redevelopment. The planning review is due for completion by the end of this year.

Meanwhile, the proposed Route 4 will be kept under review and its way forward considered in the light of the Government's decision on the South Island Line.