Explainer | Hong Kong’s history of illegal building works: from unapproved home modifications at Redhill Peninsula to ‘underground palace’ in Kowloon, the Post unpacks latest and other cases
- Authorities find illegal structures at two homes in high-end estate in Tai Tam following landslide triggered by rainstorm last week
- City has long history of illegal home modifications, which have also involved high-level politicians and government officials
Residents of a luxury private housing estate in Hong Kong’s Tai Tam are on a slippery slope after authorities found illegal structures in at least two homes following a landslide triggered by record rainfall last week.
The city has a long history of illegal modifications to private properties, which at times has also involved high-level politicians and government officials.
Here is what you need to know about the latest saga at Redhill Peninsula and how the city has dealt with unauthorised alterations in the past.
1. What unauthorised structures were found at Redhill Peninsula?
A five-by-13 metre (16-by-43-foot) structure was found on the lowest podium of No 70, as well as a five-by-six metre basement behind it.
At No 72, an unauthorised basement with a 17-by-19-metre floor space was found underneath the property. A part of the retaining wall along the slope was also illegally demolished to make room for basement windows.
There was also an illegally built swimming pool below the house.
