The Government has approved an in situ land exchange for the Mariners' Club to be redeveloped on its current Tsim Sha Tsui site.

The arrangement with the Sailors Home & Mission to Seafarers will enable it to continue to provide welfare services to seamen.

The mission acquired the Middle Road site through land exchange for full market value in 1965.

At its own cost, the club has been providing affordable accommodation and other welfare services to transiting seafarers and their families.

Under the approved land exchange, the mission can identify a partner to redevelop the site into a composite building upon premium settlement.

The building will include a new Mariners' Club on the lower levels and a commercial hotel on the upper levels.

The mission will be allowed to modernise the club's facilities to continue its services.

The Transport & Housing Bureau said the redevelopment will support Hong Kong's maritime industry and tourism development by providing the much needed welfare facilities for seafarers and increasing the hotel room supply in a key tourism district.

It can also maximise the potential of the site and uphold the city's status as a major international port and tourist destination.