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1.High Disney building cost defended

1. High Disney building cost defended
MAY CHAN, SCMP 11 October 2005

Hong Kong Disneyland and the Tourism Commission have taken a united stance in defending the theme park's high construction costs.

A Tourism Commission spokeswoman yesterday said the first phase of the park's construction was within the approved $14.1 billion budget.

"The company reports to the board of directors regularly on the progress of works and the overall expenditure of the development budget," she said.

"The quality of the works is set at a high standard to ensure Hong Kong Disneyland delivers the same Disney quality family entertainment that applies around the word."

Disneyland officials gave identical answers in response to media inquiries on its construction costs and the cost monitoring process.

The park's high construction costs drew criticism from the public.

The Buzz restroom was built at a cost of $9.48 million, while the indoor Space Mountain roller coaster cost $170 million.

The Winnie the Pooh ride and the Fantasyland Cafe together cost more than $50 million.

Legislator Raymond Ho Chung-tai, a member of the Legislative Council's economic services panel, accused the government of not being transparent enough.

"The government has not provided Legco with enough information on the matter," Mr Ho said.

"There may be reasons behind the high costs of the Disney construction items, but the government should leave it to the public to determine whether they are cost-effective."