Chief Executive John Lee has vowed to find new ways to accelerate the development of the Northern Metropolis, saying there is a “burning urgency” to transform the area into a new housing hub and engine for economic growth.

In a media interview in the run-up to his third anniversary in office, Lee said his administration will leave no stone unturned in expediting the ambitious project to create an integrated, 30,000-hectare hub in the northern New Territories that’s expected to accommodate 2.5 million residents and and providing some 650,000 jobs.

"This is one-third of Hong Kong's geographical area. It is also a place to house one-third of our population," Lee said.

"That's a clear policy I'm making now for my government team: to develop the Northern Metropolis faster for living and the development of [innovation and technology], and ensuring that industries will develop and grow."

To make that happen, Lee said authorities would take reference from construction methods used in the mainland and consider the need to get support from outside the territory for certain projects.

The government will also seek more opinions on fast-tracking the progress of the project during public consultations for his upcoming Policy Address in September, he said, adding that his new blueprint would focus on economic development and tackling livelihood issues.

The CE said he would muster all his strength during his time in office to work on the project, but wouldn’t be drawn on whether the initiative should continue under the same leadership.

Lee stressed that good policies will continue to proceed regardless of who's in power, as every government and chief executive would be wholly devoted to advancing the city’s interests.

The chief executive also said he’s satisfied with his current governing team, having brought in two new principal officials – culture, sports and tourism minister Rosanna Law and transport and logistics chief Mable Chan – six months ago.

"Following the appointments of two new ministers, I feel that the entire team's governing philosophy is in very good alignment with my requirements," he said.

"So far, I'm satisfied with them, and I believe their performance will continue to meet my standards."