The Government today clarified that the proposed preliminary reclamation extent for the Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands is about 1,000 hectares, including not less than 20% for residential use instead of only 10% as reported by the media.

The Civil Engineering & Development Department made the remarks in response to media enquiries on the land use planning of the man-made islands.

It said the Government awarded a consultancy agreement in June for a detailed planning and engineering study for the artificial islands of about 1,000 hectares around Kau Yi Chau and a feasibility study on the priority road and rail links connecting such islands.

According to the plan, the reclaimed land at the artificial islands is capable of providing about 150,000 to 260,000 housing units to accommodate a population of about 400,000 to 700,000.

The department noted that not less than 200 hectares of the reclaimed area will be reserved for residential use.

In addition, the artificial islands will provide about 100 hectares for commercial use and office floor area to support the development of the third core business district in Hong Kong, offering about 200,000 employment opportunities.

Through comprehensive planning, a liveable community supported by adequate government, institution or community facilities as well as transport infrastructure, open space and green space can be achieved, the department explained.

It added that the Government will ascertain the reclamation extent, land uses and supporting transport infrastructure of the artificial islands under the ongoing planning, engineering and transportation studies.