On the map: Chief Secretary Henry Tang visits Mui Wo to inspect plans to improve the area.

Chief Secretary for Administration Henry Tang says the Government will promote tourism and sustainable development in Mui Wo by upgrading the district's facilities while preserving its local characteristics.

Mr Tang today visited Mui Wo to learn about plans to improve the environment and develop the local economy. He was briefed by District Planning Officer (Sai Kung & Islands) Michael Chan on development projects near the Mui Wo Pier to turn the area into a leisure and historic rural township.

Mr Tang then proceeded to Mui Wo Rural Committee Road where he learned that priority will be given to repairing it and adjacent streets. Road signs and streetlights with local characteristics will be installed. The $6-million project will be completed by 2009.

The Mui Wo Rural Committee also plans to erect a silver bauhinia statue in the central plaza outside Mui Wo Market.

Mr Tang then walked past the Wang Tong River footbridge to Silver Mine Bay Beach. The Government will commit $12 million to widen the bridge and another $10 million to upgrade the promenade.

Mr Tang also chatted with district representatives, residents and shopkeepers. They said they hope the Government will revamp Mui Wo to attract more tourists and revitalise the local economy.