The Tamar development project has been temporarily shelved to review public spending priorities amidst the impact of the SARS outbreak. A review will be completed within six months.

Meanwhile, the preparatory work for the project will continue.

The Government completed a prequalification exercise for the design and construction of the project last December.

The project covers the design and construction of a new central government complex, Legislative Council complex, an exhibition gallery, a civic place, carparks and pedestrian footbridges at the site. Completion is expected by 2007.

Director of Administration Andrew Wong said last month that the project will help create about 3,300 jobs. Mr Wong also anticipated that the 20,000-square-metre exhibition gallery will attract about 800,000 visitors a year.

The design and construction of the new facilities will cost about $5.9 billion, while the design and fabrication of exhibits in the exhibition gallery will cost $175 million.

The Government will soon seek funds from the Legislative Council before inviting tenders from five prequalified bidders in the second quarter of 2003 to design and build the facility.