I have just seen the Government's 'blueprint' for Hong Kong's future including proposals for the Star Ferry terminal. It is remarkable that while Hong Kong projects itself as a 'world-class city', it is doing so by replicating old buildings styled to match the Star Ferry buildings of 1912. I think it is essential to preserve Hong Kong's past by preserving historic buildings, but I am sure Hong Kong's spectacular waterfront is worthy of the same treatment as cities such as Barcelona, Paris, London or Chicago.
It continually amazes me that Hong Kong tries to reinvent the wheel each time instead of learning from other cities what can truly be a waterfront to be proud of, with park areas, alfresco dining, pedestrian zones, trails for joggers and cyclists.
Barcelona implemented a waterfront redevelopment many years ago that has proved highly successful, winning many architectural and planning awards. Barcelona's strategy provided ample outdoor areas where vehicles are shielded from site and sound, where people can simply stroll or sit by the waterfront.
Hong Kong's waterfront presently resembles a wasteland between Wan Chai and Central, let's give Hong Kong a bit of breathing space stretching from Sheung Wan to Causeway Bay benefiting all.
MICHAEL PRYDE
Tai Po