6. Conclusion and Ways Forward to First Stage Public Consulation

6 CONCLUSION AND WAYS FORWARD TO FIRST STAGE PUBLIC CONSULTATION

6.1.1 In summary, Technical Report No.2 has addressed the following tasks set out in Task 3 (Clause 6.4 of the Study Brief) to develop:

"initial set of evaluative criteria for identifying the importance and sensitivity of landscape character"

"a list of possible indicators against which changes in landscape resources can be measured and evaluated over time. The indicator(s) to be recommended should meet the guiding principles and selection criteria for indicators developed under the SUSDEV21... for future incorporation in the sustainability evaluation tool adopted by Government."

6.1.2 As has been shown in the report, the landscape appraisal process should be understood in terms of four separate components (Character, Condition, Sensitivity and Value) each of which may be used in different ways, either as part of the Study, or afterwards. The methodologies that are presented in this report are preliminary findings, which will be refined and developed as the Study progresses.

6.2 WAY FORWARD TO FIRST STAGE PUBLIC CONSULTATION

6.2.1 Task 4 will address the following issues:

Produce a consultation digest in English and Chinese on the initial landscape categories, classification and evaluative criteria.

Organise a public consultation with the relevant bodies to obtain feedback on the consultation digest.

6.2.2 In addition, the following items (addressed in the Inception Report) will be subject to further review as part of Task 4.

KEY ISSUES

6.2.3 Further key issues will arise as a result of Task 4 and these will be addressed as the Study proceeds.

APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY

6.2.4 As a result of the public consultation, it may be necessary to refine and amend the evaluation criteria and indicators in this report.

STUDY PROGRAMME

6.2.5 As further key issues arise and comments are made, it may be necessary to review and refine the Study Programme in order to meet changing project requirements and constraints. It is therefore suggested that flexible and responsive approach to internal programming is adopted, whilst maintaining the final Study deadlines.