Hong Kong’s Northern Metropolis is no longer a distant blueprint but a defining project of our times. In his policy address, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu made clear that its delivery will be a top priority, with new structures, legislation and transport links to ensure momentum. This marks a significant step forward for Hong Kong, signalling a determination to transform vision into reality.
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The creation of a committee tasked with developing the Northern Metropolis, backed by working groups to design development models, oversee planning and establish a university town, shows that the government is moving decisively to strengthen coordination.
Dedicated legislation will provide the legal framework to speed up approvals and reduce delays. These moves, together with the pledge to remove administrative barriers, will undoubtedly help equip the project with the necessary tools to succeed.
Innovative approaches in the policy address reinforce this momentum. Fast-tracking approvals and adopting proven construction techniques from mainland China and overseas are expected to lower costs and shorten timelines. A phased-development scheme, inspired by the mainland’s “1.5-level development” concept, will allow early low-density facilities such as retail, entertainment and exhibition venues to begin operation ahead of full-scale projects, generating revenue and foot traffic.
Flexible land policies, such as land exchange, longer leases and direct grants where appropriate, will encourage market participation and investment.
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Concrete initiatives support this strategy. The government pledges to expedite the Lok Ma Chau Loop, set out a development outline for the San Tin Technopole and strengthen transport connectivity. These are not only vital anchors for housing and industry but also symbolic of Hong Kong’s commitment to deeper integration with Shenzhen and other parts within the Greater Bay Area development zone.