The government said on Sunday that it has started looking into improving the road network on Lantau, saying that it's important for the island's sustainable development.

The Secretary for Development, Bernadette Linn, said it wants to better connect Lantau south and north by strengthening the transport infrastructure, and is looking into using the Old Tung Chung Road again.

She said the Sustainable Lantau Office (SLO) under the Civil Engineering and Development Department launched a feasibility study this month, which is expected to be completed in two years.

The minister added that officials will expand segments of several roads, such as South Lantau Road, Keung Shan Road and Tai O Road, in stages by way of minor works projects.

Linn stressed the idea is to promote sustainable development of Lantau by conserving the south while developing the northern part of the island.

"Some people may think that promoting conservation is to protect the natural environment and not to touch anything. But actually, conservation and development can co-exist," she wrote in her official blog.

She said the SLO has multi-dimensional measures to conserve the island.

These include encouraging the public to learn more about the natural and cultural resources of south Lantau, while promoting sustainable tourism and leisure activities that can revitalise rural areas, boost the economy and benefit both villagers and visitors.

Linn said the office is finding suitable sites in southern Lantau to set up quality hostel and camping sites, adding that it will help camp site and camper van operators who are not familiar with permit and license applications to apply.

She added that the Lantau Conservation Fund the government set up in 2020 has approved more than 30 projects, including wetland conservation and documenting the history of the fishing community in Tai O.