A NEW ECONOMIC ENGINE
But it is not just residents who will be affected.
For 13 years, Cheung Kwai Choi has run a farm in the New Territories.
Initially opposed to the development, the 60-year-old is now resigned to the reality that he will have to shut down and move out.
“I am not supporting it — it’s just because I don’t have other solutions,” he said.
“For the current (Northern Metropolis development) plan, I was against it before. As for how it should be planned, it should be something we as the people can also participate in.
“We used to have freedom of expression. But now we don’t have the freedom of expression, so we have no opportunity to participate.”
According to the government, the development, which started last year, will span over 20 years.
It will feature dedicated zones, including a hub for high-end professional services and logistics, an innovation and technology zone, and a new university town.
When completed, the Northern Metropolis aims to accommodate about 2.5 million residents and provide around 650,000 jobs.
In his recent annual policy address, Lee announced he would personally lead a new task force and introduce dedicated legislation to accelerate the initiative. He also pledged to adopt building technologies from China and overseas to reduce costs and construction time.
“It is now the optimal juncture to expedite the development of the area, bringing in industries and major projects,” said Lee, who will establish and chair the Committee on Development of the Northern Metropolis.
“The government will streamline administrative procedures, removing barriers and restrictions.”
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