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1. Sheung Wan streets to get $30m makeover

1. Sheung Wan streets to get $30m makeover
KLAUDIA LEE, SCMP 21 June 2003

The streets of Sheung Wan - one of Hong Kong's oldest business districts - will get a $30 million facelift during the next two years in a bid to create a new hub for leisure and community activities.

Unveiling the rejuvenation project yesterday, Urban Renewal Authority managing director Billy Lam Chung-lun said the effort would be centred on the Western Market and Morrison Street area.

"As Hong Kong's earliest business district, Sheung Wan has great potential for economic revitalisation based on its rich heritage of traditional Chinese trades and restaurants, and historic spots such as the Man Mo Temple," Mr Lam said.

The project, he said, could also establish a "strategic line-up" with other major projects already completed in Sheung Wan, including the conservation of the Western Market and redevelopment of New Millennium Plaza and Queen Street.

A refurbishment of the Western Market shopping mall, which will be the focus of the project, has already started. It will be completed in July.

Other elements of the project, scheduled for completion in two years, include the construction of a multi-purpose public square, and re-paving, widening and beautification of sidewalks around the Western Market. There will also be beautification of a footbridge linking the market to Gala Point and the Shun Tak Centre.

A nearby MTR structure and tram station will be re-designed to blend into the surrounding area.

Welcoming the project, Wu Chor-nam, chairman of the Central and Western District Council, said it could help revitalise some old businesses in the district. "We hope that the refurbishment will help attract more tourists, which in turn will bring customers to some traditional businesses, such as those selling dried seafood and Chinese medicine," he said.

The latest project comes after a major redevelopment plan in Sheung Wan announced by the authority in March.

The $1 billion project will see Staunton Street and Wing Lee Street developed into a residential and retail area. A memorial square commemorating the founder of modern China, Sun Yat-sen, will also be built in the present Bridges Street Market. The square is intended to reflect the area's historical significance.