Views sought: Michael Suen (centre), Director of Buildings Marco Wu and acting Deputy Secretary for Housing, Planning & Lands Olivia Nip announce details of the proposals at a press conference.

A consultation on building management and maintenance was launched today to gauge views on the Government's proposals to promote building care culture and major principles on achieving a good living environment.

Secretary for Housing, Planning & Lands Michael Suen said the SARS outbreak aroused concern on the possible dire consequences of building neglect, and the need to establish a strategy to tackle this long-standing problem.

"We need a strong partnership between the Government and relevant sectors and every individual playing their part in keeping buildings in good condition," he said.

The consultation document sets out the principle that building owners should accept their responsibility for the proper upkeep of their buildings, including the necessary financial commitment.

Mr Suen said the public should consider whether the proposal to integrate building management and building maintenance will provide a sustainable solution to the building neglect problem.

In the process, the industry should provide one-stop building management and maintenance services to facilitate owners in discharging their responsibilities.

The consultation document has also put forth support measures to promote building management and maintenance, such as:

* introducing some mandatory form of management for buildings in multiple ownership;

* facilitating the recovery of contributions from building owners;

* giving positive recognition to good management and maintenance; and,

* providing targeted financial assistance to the needy.

Mr Suen said the long-standing building neglect problem cannot be resolved overnight.

"The aim of the consultation exercise is to generate wide public discussion on this important issue. Subject to the public response to the broad policy direction and the proposed approaches, we will then proceed to draw up the implementation details," he said.

Details of the proposals are now available at the bureau's website. Comments and suggestions should reach the bureau by April 15, by fax 2845 3489, by email at bmm@hplb.gov.hk or by mail to Urban Renewal Division 4, Housing, Planning & Lands Bureau, 9th Floor, Murray Building, Garden Road, Central.

Two public forums will be held at 3.30pm on January 20 at City Hall and at 6.30pm on February 23 at the Henry G. Leong Yaumatei Community Centre. Enquiries can be made at 2848 2718.