Why are Hong Kong government buildings slated for demolition filling up again?

Two Hong Kong government buildings in Wan Chai heading for demolition have begun filling up again with temporary occupants, prompting calls for better long-term planning by authorities.

While a lawmaker said it made sense to use the available premises before the 2027 deadline for all occupants to move out, a land use concern group’s founder questioned whether the administration was pessimistic over future demand for top-grade office buildings.

Immigration Tower and Revenue Tower were earmarked together with Wanchai Tower for redevelopment into a complex connected to the Convention and Exhibition Centre. All three had to be vacated by 2027.

But while the original occupants moved out of the first two, other government offices were allowed to move in for up to three years. Ongoing renovations at some premises were only expected to be completed next year.

Legislator Doreen Kong Yuk-foon said it was inconceivable and a waste of money to move government agencies into buildings due to be demolished.

“It seems they were not attentive enough in their long-term coordination of the overall planning,” she said.