Harbourfront Commission chairman Ivan Ho on Monday said that new public spaces will open along the Kowloon waterfront this year.

These include a promenade near the Kai Tak New Acute Hospital and an event space at the former Hung Hom Railway Freight Yard Pier.

Speaking on RTHK, Ho said a pedestrian walkway linking Tai Kok Tsui and the West Kowloon Cultural District is also expected to open this year.

“The walkway is almost one kilometre long. We believe it will benefit the residents of Tai Kok Tsui by offering them a direct, smooth and convenient route to West Kowloon,” he said.

“The West Kowloon Cultural District Authority has also recently developed a pet garden and bike rental facilities near the Tai Kok Tsui side, so residents can enjoy these amenities once they walk over.”

Ho also said the East Coast Boardwalk at North Point has been popular among local and overseas visitors and boosted nearby businesses.

“The fully connected 13km-long harbourfront on Hong Kong Island has the potential to drive the overall harbourfront and economic development on the island, and has significantly improved the quality of life for people,” he said.

“I’m delighted to see that many elderly residents now have the space to get some fresh air and go for some walks,” he added.