Secretary of Development visits Southern District (with photos)
The Secretary for Development, Mrs Carrie Lam, visited the Southern District today (August 6) to gain a better understanding of the latest developments there.
Accompanied by the District Officer, Ms Eva Yam, Mrs Carrie Lam went to the University of Hong Kong (HKU) to get first hand information on the Centennial Campus project and the construction of the Human Research Institute.
Briefed by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Tsui Lap-chee, and the Pro-Vice Chancellor, Professor John Malpas, Mrs Lam noted that the HKU would develop a Centennial Campus for completion in 2011-12.
The planned expansion to the west of the existing Main Campus would be an important step for moving forward to a major international research-led university and preparing for the implementation of the new four-year curriculum.
Mrs Lam was pleased to note the university is committed to sustainability and its effort in striking a balance between conservation and development when drawing up the Centennial Campus plan. She learnt that two staff quarters, which were graded historical buildings, would be retained to form a landmark at the grand entrance to the Centennial Campus. After refurbishment, the two buildings will be used as a visitor centre, a world-class bookshop or a cafeteria to fit in with the new campus.
The disused Water Supplies Department's Water Treatment Works is another graded historical building to be preserved and re-interpreted on the new campus site to present the history of water supply in Hong Kong, and showcase its contribution to the territory's success.
Mrs Lam was also briefed on the construction of the Human Research Institute at Sassoon Road. The project aims to provide space, technologies and facilities to cultivate multi-disciplinary research pursuits. The construction works is expected to complete by 2010.
Mrs Lam also visited the Federation of Trade Unions Hong Kong Island South District Centre. Touring the centre, she was briefed on the work and service provided to the local community. She also had a friendly chat with members of a Cantonese Opera class and a children cooking class.
During the visit, Mrs Lam also went to the Wong Chuk Hang Business Area to visit a factory building where she met with representatives of the Southern District Industries and Commerce Association to listen to their views on the revitalization of the Wong Chuk Hang Business Area.
Before ending the visit, Mrs Lam met the Chairman of the Southern District Council (SDC), Ms Mar Yuet-har; the vice-chairman, Mr Chu Ching-hong, and other SDC members to listen to their views on the latest developments in the district.
Ends/Monday, August 6, 2007
Issued at HKT 20:06
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