To prevent potential damage to the new Stonecutters Bridge, and ensure safe navigation of vessels within the area, the Transport & Housing Bureau proposes establishing a 41.9-hectare vessel height restricted area.

Except with the Director of Marine's permission, no vessels of a height exceeding 68.5 metres from sea level could enter this area.

The proposal is gazetted today and relevant law amendments will be introduced to the Legislative Council on June 4.

The Port Operations Committee, the Local Vessels Advisory Committee, the LegCo Economic Development Panel and Modern Terminals Ltd - which operates a berth within the proposed height restricted area - support the proposal.