I would like to add my voice to those who are against the impending phase II development on Lamma.
I have lived here for only 10 months and every day I am so thankful for the charm and quaintness of Lamma. Disembarking the ferry, I am soothed by the sound of lapping waves, or amused by watching a cat catching small crabs among the rocks. I am glad there are no cars, no McDonald's restaurant and no Wellcome supermarket. I wave to familiar faces in the open-air shops and restaurants as I walk home. On weekends, hundreds of tourists stroll through the streets as they take in the unique atmosphere of the island. The size of everything is refreshingly small and accessible.
However, if the Civil Engineering Department (CED) has its way, it will destroy most of the existing natural coastline with its plan to reclaim much of Yung Shue Wan harbour. Full-scale reclamation and completion of this project means having a massive uniform sea wall and a huge wave reflector. Phase I has already cemented over a once-lovely natural coastline. I have heard 'old-timers' recount how picturesque it used to be. Now, it is gone forever. There is no turning back.
Does progressive development need to equate with gigantic cement structures, huge land reclamation and total destruction or alteration of what exists naturally?
Is the CED aware that this kind of development may evoke a sense of loss, regret and the finality of a cement burial in our collective minds? Are officials aware that nearly 100 per cent of people surveyed, including residents, local tourists and foreign tourists, object to this kind of radical development?
Lamma is a treasure and a wonderful respite from the cold, hard, towering and artificial coastline of Hong Kong. The SAR needs desperately to protect the village charm and refuge value of Lamma.