A consultancy study aiming to formulate a comprehensive plan to improve the environment of Mong Kok shopping areas will start this month, Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food Dr York Chow says.

The study, to be completed in two years, will cover better land use, enhanced pedestrian circulation, better traffic management, a more comfortable pedestrian environment and enhanced streetscape. Reduction of vehicle-pedestrian conflict in the district will also be examined.

Dr Chow told lawmakers verbal warnings will be given to offenders to keep pavements unobstructed. Prosecutions will also be taken.

In 2003 to 2005, a total of 363 verbal warnings were issued and 304 prosecutions taken against illegal hawking along Nathan Road.

In the period, a total of 55 verbal warnings were given to on-street promotional stands, 47 to shops for unauthorised expansion of business areas, and 264 to newspaper stands for occupation of areas larger than permitted.

A total of 40 prosecutions against illegal expansion of business areas by shops and 234 for occupation of areas larger than permitted by newspaper stands were taken.

Joint operations will keep Nathan Road clear

Dr Chow stressed the departments concerned will keep the situation in view and take enforcement as appropriate. They will also mount joint operations to keep the pavements along Nathan Road unobstructed.

On measures to enhance pedestrian facilities along Nathan Road, Dr Chow said improvements to the footbridge system at Mong Kok Road are being planned while works to extend the footbridge across Nathan Road will begin by the end of this year.