Two developers have shown interest in refurbishing old streetscapes in Wan Chai after an invitation to submit proposals was launched by the district council last year.
In a bid to extend its sphere of influence in Admiralty, Swire Properties, which owns commercial tower Three Pacific Place, has proposed revitalising the open gardens and improving pedestrian networks next to the tower with a budget of HK$25 million, according to a district council paper to be discussed today.
Swire's proposal covers three public gardens and a recreation ground on Sun, Moon, Star and St Francis streets. Apart from repaving garden areas, facilities, including benches, lighting and shrubs, will be added to the open space to make it more community friendly.
On Moon Street, street lamps will be redesigned, and signs improved to highlight the history related to missionary activity in the area. Walls will be designated for arts activities and mobile retail stores will also be allowed. The project will take one to two years to complete.
In a bid to revitalise the Blue House cluster, St James Settlement has also proposed working with Nan Fung Group, which has a property nearby, to refurbish the surrounding areas of the cluster, the paper said.
In the NGO's proposal, a social enterprise will be established to promote the culture and history of Stone Nullah Lane, site of the Blue House cluster. Hygiene and facilities for the disabled will also be improved.
