Hong Kong is set to get its own version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Known as the Hollywood of East Asia with its long cinematic history, Hong Kong will enshrine its movie greats permanently on the Avenue of Stars.

Star attraction: The Avenue of Stars will pay tribute Hong Kong's movie greats and become a top tourist attraction.

The avenue will run along Tsim Sha Tsui's waterfront promenade outside the Museum of Art, and head towards Tsim Sha Tsui East.

Tourism Board Chairman Selina Chow said construction will start next month for completion in mid-2004.

The avenue will celebrate the popularity of our film industry with both local and oversees moviegoers.

She said it is also timely to develop new attractions to enhance Hong Kong's appeal and competitiveness in the tourist market.

"The Avenue of Stars builds on the fact that Hong Kong is rightfully one of the world's major film exporters and producers, and is home to many world-renowned film stars and professionals," Mrs Chow said.

Local celebrities have long enjoyed strong appeal across Southeast and North Asia, and now the popularity of Hong Kong movie stars and directors is rapidly extending to North America and Europe.

The avenue will showcase each personality with a plaque. Nominees will be selected by the Hong Kong Film Awards Association and its 10 member organisations.

Milestones, sculptures, greenery, kiosks, rest facilities and special lighting will also be built along the walk, and regular activities will be organised to enhance its appeal.

The New World Group will finance the $40 million avenue's design and construction, and manage the facility free for 20 years.