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│ DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE

We are committed to enhancing the quality of our built environment . In
planning new development areas, we have applied smart, green and resilient measures and
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adopted the enhanced open space provision of 3.5m per person. We have made good
progress on the two studies complementing HK2030+’s strategic vision of shaping a more
active, healthy and revitalised city. The “Study on Active Design for Healthier Lifestyle –
Feasibility Study” was largely completed in 2021, and a set of Active Design Guidelines was
formulated. For the “Reimagining Public Spaces in Hong Kong” Study, we are refining the
recommendations taking into account the comments received from different stakeholders. All

these would help create a more liveable, healthy and sustainable city.

To further enhance the speed and efficiency of land creation, we are
working with Development Bureau to review the statutory planning procedures with a view
to streamlining the development process. We are also exploring measures to strengthen
enforcement power through legislative amendments so that certain rural areas with high

ecological value but subject to development pressure and environmental degradation can be
protected. We target to introduce the legislative amendments in 2022.

We continued to engage the community stakeholders proactively during the
year. The City Gallery, managed by the Department, has provided both onsite and online
platforms for showcasing the planning and infrastructure developments of Hong Kong. The
City Gallery is also a venue for organising webinars and workshops for local, Mainland and

overseas audience. This year, we are honoured to receive the Certificate of Merit of the Hong
Kong Institute of Planners Awards on the “City Gallery Revamping Project”. The award is an
appreciation of our colleagues’ hard work and a recognition of the outstanding quality of our
City Gallery’s services.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to all my colleagues. Our
achievements in the past year were only possible due to the unwavering dedication and

diligence of our staff. For this year in particular, my sincere gratitude also extends to colleagues
with their all-out efforts to participate in various anti-epidemic duties whilst continuing with
ongoing work assiduously. I have full confidence that with our vision, professionalism,
determination and commitment, we shall be able to embrace the challenges ahead and
strive for making Hong Kong a liveable, competitive and sustainable “Asia's World City”.

Ivan Chung, JP

Director of Planning

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