Lawmakers have been fully informed of the justifications for the Tamar development project and its merits over the option of redeveloping the Central Government Offices and Murray Building, the Administration Wing says.

Refuting a press report which said the Government has been withholding "a secret report" recommending redevelopment of the existing offices and Murray Building, the Administration Wing pointed out detailed information on the Tamar development project has been furnished throughout the process of consultation and deliberations with the Legislative Council.

The LegCo Brief issued on April 30, 2002, set out the comparison of the Tamar site option and the redevelopment of the offices and Murray Building.

The brief highlighted the fact that the Tamar site is a better option than in-situ redevelopment, having regard to the planning concept, demand and supply of Grade A office, timeframe and operational efficiency.

Tamar a speedier option

The proposed development at Tamar would be completed at least four years earlier that redevelopment work on existing facilities. Previous research on in-situ redevelopment showed that while it might be technically feasible to redevelop the existing offices, there would be significant constraints. 

The allegation the Government has been withholding any such analysis from the LegCo and the public is totally unfounded.