Overwhelming approval: Acting Chief Secretary for Administration Michael Suen says the majority of the public support the Tamar project. Looking on is Director of Administration Elizabeth Tse.

More people support the Tamar project than oppose it, Acting Chief Secretary for Administration Michael Suen says.

Speaking on a radio talk show today, Mr Suen said according to the information received by the Administration, including the Government's internal surveys, newspaper editorials and public opinions, the project has all along had the support of the majority of the public.

Although the support rate might change from time to time, it does not affect the fact that most citizens support the project, he added.

Mr Suen said all government tests have shown the level of dioxin at the Tamar site and in Victoria Harbour is far below the international standard, adding there is no need to conduct tests because of rumours.

Construction costs lower than those in private sector

Director of Administration Elizabeth Tse reiterated the estimated construction cost of the new headquarters is reasonable and similar to those for other grade-A office buildings in the private market.

She said the project's unit-construction cost should be about $11,600 per square metre, compared with the average of about $13,000 per square metre unit-construction cost of grade-A office buildings in the private sector.

Ms Tse stressed the Government has attached great importance to the public's view of the Tamar project.

It has already opted to reduce the office space requirements by 10% compared with the 2003 proposal, and also introduced a building-free zone under the ridgeline to preserve the skyline and maintain an open view to and from Victoria Harbour, she added.

She said, subject to funding support by the Legislative Council, the Government will invite the four prequalified applicants to tender for the design and build contract for the project in the third quarter of this year.

Design models to go on public display

When the tenders for the Tamar development project are returned, models of the designs will be presented to the public for viewing, she said, adding the Special Selection Board will take the public's views into account when evaluating the tenders.

Mr Suen said the Government is now focusing on the development of the Tamar site and has not discussed the redevelopment of the present Government Headquarters.