New frontier: The revised closed-area boundary will take effect after the completion of the secondary fence, estimated to be about 2010.

The proposed cut of the Frontier Closed Area from 2,800 hectares to 800 will not affect its security and boundary integrity, Deputy Secretary for Security Cheung Siu-hing says.

Speaking on radio talk shows today, Ms Cheung said the number of illegal immigrants coming to Hong Kong via land fell about 90% after the reunification. As a secondary fence will be built to enclose the boundary patrol road and protect the primary boundary fence, she said the proposal will not affect the area's law and order.

Historic tie

Ms Cheung said closed-area restrictions will still apply mainly to boundary crossings, including Chung Ying Street. 

Given its historical background, Chung Ying Street is the only point where people and goods may cross the boundary, without all the measures and facilities at other boundary-control points, making it susceptible to illegal immigration and goods-smuggling problems. Therefore, the restriction cannot be lifted.

On the idea to allow organised tour groups to use Sha Tau Kok public pier to access outer islands and the east coast of the northern New Territories during weekends and public holidays, Ms Cheung said this may be put in place once agreement is reached with the Sha Tau Kok community.

Planning study

Deputy Director of Planning (Territorial & Sub-Regional) Jimmy Leung said a planning study will be carried out early next year for the land to be excised from the closed area.

The study will cover a 12-month assessment to examine the area's development potential and constraints and identify suitable future uses. This will be followed by a 18-month work in formulating a planning framework to guide the area's conservation and development.

Mr Leung said only less than 30% of the land is privately owned. The Government is open-minded on the area's sustainable development, and views will be sought from the relevant district councils and statutory bodies in the coming months before launching the study.