Measures to streamline Northern Metropolis land-use procedures unveiled

2026.03.17 15:50 Lok Ma Chau is one of the areas covered by the megaproject. Photo: Eugene Lee Hong Kong authorities have proposed designated laws to streamline procedures for changing land use in the Northern Metropolis megaproject, cutting the process from typically nine months to just two. Unveiled by the Development Bureau on Tuesday, the proposed designated legislation comprises six main subsidiary laws designed to remove bottlenecks in the massive scheme near the border with mainland China. They include the establishment of statutory firms and measures to speed up land resumption payments and the adoption of new building technologies. The bureau is also seeking to simplify noise permission procedures, facilitate the cross-border flow of people and extend the validity period for temporary land use, according to a paper submitted to the Legislative Council. The megaproject, first announced in 2021, aims to turn 30,000 hectares (74,132 acres) of land into an engine for economic growth and a housing hub. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu has vowed to expedite its development, aligning with the nation’s recently unveiled 15th five-year plan. Currently, developers are required to submit an application to the Town Planning Board, attend meetings and undergo consultations to change the land use specified in an outline zoning plan. The process usually takes around nine months. One key proposal would remove one procedure for changing land use in non‑conservation areas of the Northern Metropolis, reducing review rounds by the board from two to one and shortening the timetable to around two months. Green belt land, country parks and areas of high ecological value will be excluded. Asked if the move would lower the board’s power to review such applications, a bureau spokesman said: “We have to strike a balance [between public engagement and development speed], as in the commercial aspect, time is money.” He added that legislative scrutiny and media oversight would

原文链接: 南华早报