To achieve the vision of Hong Kong as Asia's world city, the Government will focus on three broad areas in working out the future blueprint of Hong Kong - improving a quality living environment, enhancing economic competitiveness, and strengthening links with the Mainland, Secretary for Development Carrie Lam says.

Speaking at the plenary session of an international symposium organised by the Skyscraper Museum in New York City, Mrs Lam said Hong Kong's high-density development had accommodated the city's population increase at 1 million per decade in the second half of the 20th century and propelled its economic growth, while preserving the countryside for public enjoyment. 

"Many visitors are amazed to find out that over 44% of Hong Kong's land area is actually taken up by country parks and special areas," she said.

"Hong Kong's highly efficient public transport system which takes care of 89% of average daily trips made is also the envy of many cities."

Urban regeneration

Recently, she noted, there have been concerns about the height and bulk of buildings and their environmental and visual impact, while people expressed strong aspirations for preserving heritage buildings, ceasing harbour reclamation, creating quality open space and preserving community networks and local characteristics in urban regeneration.

In response, and to pursue sustainable development in Hong Kong, the Government was committed to finding the right balance through what Chief Executive Donald Tsang referred to as "progressive development". Apart from economic benefits, we should strive for benefits to culture, the society and the environment.

Mrs Lam described how the Government was reviewing development density, promulgating clear development control parameters in statutory plans, preserving and revitalising heritage buildings, undertaking area-based revitalisation projects and promoting green buildings.

The Chief Executive's 2008 Policy Address also addresses harbourfront enhancement and energy efficiency in buildings, she noted. With the concerted efforts of the community, the Government was confident that all these measures would help contribute to the sustainable development of Hong Kong, she said.