The Hong Kong government is proposing an “Eco-Recreation Corridor” around Lantau Island’s Cheung Sha, Shui Hau, Shek Pik, and Pui O involving F&B, sports and adventure facilities.
A two-month public engagement exercise will begin on Tuesday, according to a Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD) legislature paper also set to be presented to lawmakers on Tuesday.
The plan aims to transform the area into a tourism and conservation awareness hub. It would see Cheung Sha – home to the territory’s longest beach – developed into a visitor centre with retail and dining opportunities. Camp sites, water sports zones, hiking chairlifts, resort accommodation and leisure piers could appear along the coast, if the proposal is approved.
A heritage trail and new paths around Shek Pik, and a culture and nature hub at Shiu Hau may also be on the cards. Meanwhile, Pui O – a rural beauty spot popular with stray cattle – may see development, such as new hiking trails.
See also: The campaign to prevent Hong Kong’s nature trails from being paved over
Land and water transport around the area would also be enhanced.
‘Ecology-based sustainable’ plan
The paper said studies had recommended “developing ecologically and naturally based sustainable leisure and recreational facilities” which respected the “ecological value, geographical conditions, natural or historical and cultural resources, recreational features,
development constraints” of the area.
“Through participation in ecology-based sustainable recreational and educational programmes/activities/facilities, visitors can experience the [sic] nature and distinguishing features of different attractions, enjoy a diverse range of leisure and recreational experiences, [and] enhance their understanding on the natural resources and historical culture of South Lantau,” the paper claimed. “At the same time, public awareness on conservation can be raised and the local economy can be boosted.”
HKFP has reached out to NGO Green Earth for comment.
Earlier this year, a 2023 CEDD study came under scrutiny after “plastic wood” was deployed around Lantau. Hikers, trail runners and nature lovers petitioned to halt the use of wood plastic composite, which authorities claimed was environmentally-friendly but critics say can disintegrate and pollute the soil.
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