Merchants and community advocates are opposing a government plan to revamp a well-known flower market in Hong Kong, fearing it may alter the tourist attraction’s unique character.
The Flower Market Concern Group and the NGO Liber Research Community voiced their concerns ahead of the Town Planning Board’s conclusion to its two-month consultation on the redevelopment of Mong Kok’s flower market, which is expected this Wednesday.
The Urban Renewal Authority (URA) intends to upgrade 31 buildings that are between 64 and 76 years old. This plan will impact approximately 275 households and 33 shops located on the ground floor of the market. The redevelopment site, situated at Sai Yee Street and Prince Edward Road West, aims to transform into a residential and commercial complex reaching up to 44 stories, providing 1,350 new flats.
Enya Wong, a member of the concern group and manager of one of the affected flower shops, criticized the plan for not valuing the market’s unique culture. She expressed concern that the complex could “completely destroy the hub and the spirit of the market.” Wong hopes her shop can continue to operate along Prince Edward Road.
Authorities have previously indicated that the redevelopment will impact less than 20 percent of local florists.
Lawmaker Perry Yiu Pak-leung emphasized the need to preserve Mong Kok’s flower market. He urged authorities to listen to the views of residents and other stakeholders.
Ada Lee, a 60-year-old retiree and member of the concern group, called the redevelopment plan “incomplete,” noting it ignores several older buildings on Flower Market Road.
Liber Research Community, which focuses on land and development issues, also opposes the conversion of public spaces, like parks, into private buildings, including hotels and offices. The group’s founder, Chan Kim-ching, criticized the plan for misallocating resources and urged that priority be given to buildings in poor condition.
Adam, a 21-year-old student from Poland visiting Hong Kong for the first time, shared his appreciation for the market’s cultural significance. “I enjoy the overall impression it gives, as it is part of the city’s culture,” he said.
The URA responded to the concerns, stating it would consider the overall district planning instead of just the age of the buildings. They aim to bring greater benefits to the community and have pledged to continue engaging with local businesses and residents to understand their needs and minimize disruption during the redevelopment process.
The renewal plan is part of a larger initiative to redevelop the district, with an estimated completion date around 2035 and a total cost of HK$2.5 billion (US$322 million).
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