1.2 Message - Ms Bernadette LINN Hon-ho, Secretary for Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region

Since the establishment of the Harbour-front Enhancement Committee in 2004 and the succession of its work by the Harbourfront Commission (HC) in 2010, we have witnessed the Victoria Harbourfront coming a long way in its development over the past 20 years.

For the past two decades, the Development Bureau (DEVB) and the HC have been making efforts to connect harbourfront promenades along both sides of Victoria Harbour and enrich the building of various venues, thereby creating a harbourfront that is more accessible, well-connected and diversified for the enjoyment of the public and visitors. Indeed, the work on harbourfront enhancement is far from limited to connectivity and hardware enhancement. The DEVB and the HC have taken the harbourfront areas as the “test ground” for new harbourfront designs and management modes, and promoted various types of activities in recent years, in the hope of introducing innovative mindsets for harbourfront development.

In 2020, we established the first “Harbourfront Shared Space” (HSS) with the aim of allowing members of the public to unleash their creativity and enjoy the harbourfront space harmoniously, in their own ways but with mutual respect. Unlike a typical park, the HSS has sought to break through the conventional framework with minimal restrictions or limitations, encouraging visitors to enjoy the harbourfront space in an environment of mutual respect and inclusion. Through this open management mode of public spaces, we hope to cultivate community awareness and build open spaces conducive to interaction and communication so as to bring more vibrant and diverse experiences for visitors.

In commemorating the 20th Anniversary of harbourfront development, we can take a walk down memory lane and reminisce about the stories and achievements of harbourfront development throughout the years. Looking ahead, we eagerly look forward to unveiling a new chapter for harbourfront development. In light of the proposal put forward in the 2024-25 Budget, we plan to introduce a greater number and wider range of commercial facilities such as food and beverages, retail and entertainment on a pilot basis at selected suitable harbourfront locations to further enhance the attractiveness and diversity of the harbourfront. In addition, we have also proposed amendments to the Protection of the Harbour Ordinance with a view to maintaining the protection of the Harbour while facilitating harbourfront enhancement for public enjoyment and strengthening the harbour functions.

On the 20th Anniversary of harbourfront development, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all successive Chairmen and members of the HC, as well as every one of you who has been devoted to building our harbourfront.