Plans for the Hung Hom waterfront will not block the view of the iconic Lion Rock or affect the ridgeline, the Development Bureau's Permanent Secretary Doris Ho said on Wednesday, as the government announced a revised proposal for the area.

The new plan features two connected buildings with an elevated viewing platform overlooking Victoria Harbour.

"Our two twin-tower developments will not block the Lion Rock view, because the angles are different," Ho told an RTHK programme.

Ho stressed the viewing platform will be open to the public, though a decision on whether to charge an entry fee will depend on the project's financial viability.

She said authorities hope the new development will inject vitality into the older Hung Hom area.

"Usually when you go to enjoy the Victoria Harbour view, you might just walk along the waterfront, a low-level view. But seeing the harbour from a high vantage point gives a rather fresh feeling," Ho said.

"We believe that this can achieve the development of a landmark," she added.

Ho said the total floor area of the revised plan is similar to the earlier proposal, but the government has reduced commercial space and increased residential floor area after receiving market feedback.

About five percent of the floor area will be used for a yacht club, providing around 200 berths. Ho said the larger club facilities would improve the project's financial feasibility and meet market demand.

Onshore supporting facilities, such as charging points, will also be required. She said 200 berths is the maximum number, as any more could affect navigation channels.

The entire project is divided into two zones – one along the waterfront and another closer to inland areas. Ho said the government is still studying whether to release the site as one single area or in two phases.

She said further work is needed, including town planning procedures, but the target of handing over the first batch of land to developers by 2029 remains unchanged.


Edited by Aaron Tam