Woh Chai Hill clearance begins ahead of new facilities
On.cc · 3 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
The Home Affairs Department said it launched the Woh Chai Hill enhancement plan on Sunday, starting a two-phase clearance of illegal and unsafe structures, facilities and miscellaneous items on the Sham Shui Po hillside known locally as Bishop Hill. The government said the aim is to improve both facilities and safety, while later adding leisure and sports amenities for residents.
Key Points
- The government described illegal occupation of government land on Woh Chai Hill as a long-running Sham Shui Po district problem that has persisted for more than a decade
- Phase one covers the hillside rest garden area from Ton Yin Street to the summit, while phase two covers the route from Berwick Street to the summit.
- The Lands Department posted statutory notices for phase one, ordering owners to stop occupying the land by August 12 and remove their belongings as soon as possible.
- Each affected side of the hill will be fenced off for about three days during clearance, while the other entrance will remain open for public access, including to the former Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir at the top
- Planned upgrades include repaired signs and railings, safer seating and shelters, new fitness equipment with safety mats, slope strengthening, ground levelling, and extra table-tennis tables on the hill and at Tai Hang Tung Playground.
Why It Matters
For nearby residents, the operation means a short-term loss of some self-built facilities but the prospect of safer, standardised public amenities in their place. The government also said it would handle religious items on the hill with respect, with religious leaders invited to assist with rituals and relocation, an issue likely to shape community reaction to the clearance.