The Highways Department launched the three-month phase two public engagement exercise for the Central Kowloon Route (CKR), to collect public views on design and construction arrangements.
     The department's Major Works Project Management Office Project Manager Joanna Kwok said the route is a 4.7-km dual three-lane trunk road with 3.9 km of tunnel. The works will start in 2015 and will be completed in five years. It will connect Yau Ma Tei Interchange with Kowloon Bay and the Kai Tak Development, relieving congestion and catering for future traffic demand.
     The route has incorporated new features designed in response to public concerns raised in the first public engagement exercise.
     The department will construct landscape decks, noise enclosures and barriers for environmental benefits. The recommended alignment will preserve the historic buildings of the Yau Ma Tei Police Station and allow Temple Street night market activities to continue during construction.
     The CKR Project is currently at the detailed design stage. During the public engagement exercise, there will be a series of activities including public forums and roving exhibitions.
     The department will investigate and examine the feasibility of the comments collected during the public engagement activities carefully and will further improve and enhance the detailed design of CKR. Items for discussion include:
¡¤ Usage and design of Yau Ma Tei landscape deck
¡¤ Usage and design of Ma Tau Kok landscape deck
¡¤ Design and facilities at Ma Tau Kok Waterfront Promenade
¡¤ Long term use of Yau Ma Tei Police Station
¡¤ Reprovisioning arrangement for public facilities
¡¤ Design of ventilation buildings