The Tourism Commission is seeking views on the development of a piazza in Tsim Sha Tsui. The proposed project will create a new public open space for local residents and tourists, and enhance the connectivity and vibrancy of the area.

The commission today said the existing public transport interchange adjacent to the Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier will be relocated to Tsim Sha Tsui East.  After the completion of the phased diversion of bus routes, the Government plans to develop the vacated site into a piazza.

Proposed pre-requisites

The Government has proposed some pre-requisites for the project:

* the existing TST Star Ferry Pier, the TST Clock Tower and the five flag-posts should not be affected;

* suitable arrangements should be put in place to facilitate the local residents and visitors to take buses or taxis to and from TST Star Ferry Pier; and,

* irrespective of whether the project is to be implemented by the Government or the private sector, a mechanism should be established to select private partners through an open tender and to allow the public to effectively engage in and monitor the implementation of the project. 

Also, the Government should avoid creating any additional burden on the traffic and transport conditions in this part of TST, and conduct regular surveys to gauge community feedback during the phased relocation of bus routes and for the introduction of effective mitigating measures as and when required.

Possible uses

The commission is also exploring options for possible uses, and development and management modes of the piazza. It wishes to collect views from the community with a view to formulating an optimal option for the design, development and management of the piazza.

On the basis of the public views collected, specific proposals will be worked out for further public engagement. The implementation of the project will be subject to funding approval by the Legislative Council. Subject to progress in the next phase of work, the earliest completion date is 2010-2011.

Views should reach the commission by January 21. They should be sent by post to Room 248, 2/F, East Wing, Central Government Offices, Lower Albert Road, Hong Kong; by email to tstpiazza@cedb.gov.hk; or by fax to 2121 1468.