The Town Planning Board has rejected requests to amend the Central District (Extension) & Wan Chai North Outline Zoning Plans after thorough consideration.

The board reiterated the court's view that determination of policy concerning how best to resolve transport difficulties is a matter for the Chief Executive in Council. Therefore, whether electronic road tolls are a practicable alternative to building the Central-Wan Chai Bypass is a transport policy which lies outside its purview. The use of electronic roll tolls will not be effective without an alternative route.

On the proposal to cut the reclamation by using immersed tube tunnel construction for the bypass, the board accepted the Civil Engineering & Development Department's views the option is not feasible in this location.

Court order met

The board also noted the Government's review has reaffirmed the extent of the Central Reclamation Phase III met the "overriding public need test" laid down by the Court of Final Appeal and the reclamation extent is the absolute minimum.

The extent of reclamation within Wan Chai Development Phase II is being reviewed, so it is premature to consider amending the outline zoning plan before completion of the review next year.

The board accepted a suggestion to request the Government prepare, refine planning and design briefs for the waterfront to ensure developments blend in with the setting, facilitate pedestrian access to the waterfront, and promote visual permeability.