NEWS

Planning permission resubmitted for Sha Ha Archaeological Site

The Sai Kung Town Planning Board has received an updated planning application from New World Development, for land near a site of historical importance in Sha Ha. Covering 3,000 square metres, the Sha Ha archaeological site was discovered in 1996 and features artefacts dating back to the Late Neolithic period and Bronze Age, along with relics from the Han, Song and Ming dynasties. Located in an already built-up area on the Tai Mong Tsai Road, New World Development Group have submitted their proposal for a new residential project, which would dramatically increase the number of homes available in the region. If approved, the project would construct 15 residential buildings over an area covering 59,263 square metres. These towers, which would each stand four to ten floors tall, would be home to 972 individual units. The application also includes plans for a clubhouse and 816 parking spaces. New World’s previous application, submitted in 2018, was rejected in June last year due to concerns for the neighbouring archaeological site. In response, the new plan has reduced the number of buildings in the new proposal from 86 to 15.

Savings on longhaul bus fares

The Kowloon Motor Bus Company (KMB), has rolled out a new Regional Short-journey Sectional Fare Scheme between Sai Kung and Tseung Kwan O. Passengers with an Octopus card can enjoy budget fares on 16 different KMB routes, starting from just $4. Sai Kung is the second region in Hong Kong to adopt the scheme, following its success in the north–west New Territories of Tuen Mun, Yuen Long and Tin Shui Wai. One such service that’s sure to be a hit with local residents is Route 94, which connects Sai Kung to Wong Shek Pier. KMB have confirmed a new sectional fare of just $6 for the journey. Simply tap the card on the onboard validator before alighting and enjoy a discounted trip.

Registration open for $5,000 consumption vouchers for permanent residents

The Hong Kong government has officially launched a new scheme that means free money for permanent residents and some HKID holders. Each eligible individual can receive a $5,000 consumption voucher. Accepted payment methods under this scheme are Alipay HK, WeChat Pay HK, Tap & Go and Octopus. The $5,000 consumption voucher can be used at retail shops, market stalls, department stores, supermarkets, convenient stores, restaurants and fast food shops. Some recreational facilities, beauty salons and public transport are also open as long as they accept the agreed payment methods. This means everything from Sasa, Mannings and McDonald’s to Fortress, Broadway and even Gucci, Dior or Chanel. Applications must be submitted by August 14.

Sai Kung Marine Police launch new fleet

Sai Kung waters became a little safer last month, as officials confirmed an upgrade project is now underway in the fleet of vessels used for offshore policing and rescue operations. A total of 11 new craft were officially launched on June 18 during a ceremony at Joss House Bay in Sai Kung. The new additions to the Sai Kung Marine Police include two amphibious hovercraft, eight multi-mission interceptors and a high-speed training boat. Sai Kung can expect to see 124 launches and smaller support craft put into service within the next few years.

Sai Kung author takes aim at property injustice

Peter G de Krassel is a well-known member of the Sai Kung community. Last month he published his fifth book, Custom Maid Backspin for New World Disorder, proposing major reforms to laws governing rental property in Hong Kong. A contemporary social commentator, columnist, landlord and environmental activist, de Krassel has dedicated his career to tackling systemic injustice and highlighting the hypocrisies at the heart of society. In Hong Kong, he sees extortionate rent as a dragon that must be slayed. “One of our landlords demanded a 120 percent increase last year, which propelled me to write this book,” said de Krassel in a recent statement. The book will be released in stages, one chapter at a time starting on July 13. It will then become available in its entirety from April 2022 onwards, all proceeds from this year will support the PetsCentral Animal Welfare Foundation.