Consultations show the majority of the public backs regular mandatory building inspection and maintenance, Secretary for Housing, Planning & Lands Michael Suen says.

He said today the public feels property owners should bear the necessary costs. A lot of comments on the need for sufficient technical and financial support to help property owners fulfil their responsibility have also been received.

Mr Suen said the views collected will be considered in the coming months and a clear and detailed scheme, and implementation plan will be formulated.

On building design, he said innovation, environmentally-friendly design and sustainability of buildings, as well as a long-term and programmed maintenance and repair package, are all prerequisites for maintaining Hong Kong's position as a world-class metropolitan city.

Review underway

A review of the Buildings Ordinance, codes of practice, practice notes and guidelines is being conducted so building standards can keep pace with changes over time and be efficient, allowing designers to have more room for creativity and design flexibility.

The Buildings Department is also enhancing the sustainability of the development of buildings by encouraging innovation and environmentally friendly building design as well as assisting in energy saving.

"On the aspect of sustainable development, the Provisional Construction Industry Co-ordination Board will set up a task force to study the Comprehensive Environmental Performance Assessment Scheme for buildings," Mr Suen said.

Meanwhile, requirements under the Design Manual-Barrier Free Access 1997 regulations have been reviewed and a draft for the new design manual has been compiled. Through the review, the design of access in tall buildings will be improved, he added.