Explainer | Why the Hong Kong government’s plan for a pedestrian-friendly city is no walk in the park
- Initiatives involving pedestrian-only zones and low-speed driving areas are meeting resistance over fears about noise pollution and illegal parking
- Timing of policy bid also coincides with coming polls where district council candidates are more likely to favour resident concerns
While Hong Kong is notorious for its narrow pavements and car-centric urban planning, authorities are in a bid to reverse the trend with a significant push for a pedestrian-friendly city this month. The Post looks at the new initiatives.
What are the government’s latest efforts to promote walkability?
In two district council papers issued this month, the Transport Department chose Central, the city’s business and heritage centre, and Sham Shui Po, one of the oldest districts, as trial locations for building walkable areas.
In Central, the department will set up pedestrian-only zones in a “culture, history and entertainment street area” covering Hollywood Road, Soho and streets around heritage sites such as the former Central Police Station known as Tai Kwun, as well as the former Police Married Quarters (PMQ).
The department will also widen pavements on streets leading to the harbourfront, and provide pedestrian links to large car parks to promote a “park and walk” concept.
