​The Culture, Sports & Tourism Bureau today invited the market to submit expressions of interest (EOI) for better utilising the space of the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal (KTCT).

As one of the strategies in the Action Plan on Development of Cruise Tourism, the bureau aims to elevate the function of the KTCT as a cruise terminal for all.

Apart from the cruise operation facilities, the KTCT also has an ancillary commercial area of about 5,600 sq m, and public space located on the rooftop and second floor.

The bureau invites interested vendors and organisations to submit feasible proposals for the use of the ancillary commercial areas and public space, including use for conventional retail or other purposes, with a view to fully utilising the space.

The bureau stressed that it has been committed to promoting the KTCT for hosting more non-cruise and commercial events during the low season and on days when fewer cruises berthing thereat to better utilise the space at the KTCT.

What’s more, with the official commissioning of the Kai Tak Sports Park on March 1 this year, the park has become a new hub for hosting major sports and entertainment events.

The pedestrian walkway connecting the park and the KTCT has recently been opened, and the Home & Youth Affairs Bureau has completed the tender exercise for the Youth Post hostel and spaces for cultural and arts exchanges for youths next to the KTCT.

The organisation to operate the youth development facility has been selected, and is expected to commence operation within this year.

With the gradual population intake of the residential development projects at the former runway area of Kai Tak, the transport connectivity of the KTCT will continue to be enhanced in accordance with the plan.

Seizing the opportunities brought by the developments, the bureau hopes to bring more visitors to the KTCT by the new activities and seek business opportunities through collaboration among the Government, the business sector and the community.

Interested commercial entities, non-profit-making organisations, organisations related to the cultural, creative and sports industries as well as young entrepreneurs are welcome to submit proposals.

The bureau added that in considering the suggestions collected, it will focus on how the activities can create greater convenience and a better experience for cruise visitors, create synergies between the Kai Tak Sports Park and the Youth Post hostel, and benefit the residential community of Kai Tak.

Furthermore, it pointed out that it will determine the future use and management arrangements of the space based on the suggestions.

The invitation documents for the EOI are available on the Tourism Commission website. Interested parties must submit their EOI by July 18.

The bureau will also hold a briefing session on the EOI invitation on June 3.