ConstructioNews
Vol 29 No 3 (01-2020)
KTN and FLN NDAs (II): Overview of Kwu Tung North NDA
The total area of the Kwu Tung North New Development Area (KTN NDA) is approximately 447 ha. The NDA is located in close proximity to railway links, highways and the existing Boundary Control Points. It also features rich natural and ecological resources. These advantages will contribute to developing the area into a “Mixed Development Node” where residential, commercial, agricultural, as well as research and development uses are performed.
Housing units will be provided in the KTN NDA with a distribution of 66:34 in public and private housing developments. Upon full development, it is anticipated to accommodate a total population of 119,000. The central part of the KTN NDA will be located near the proposed Kwu Tung railway station and public transport interchange. With careful and detailed planning and development, the central part will serve as the town centre which provides not only residential flats, but also retail, social and community facilities. To support the function of the town centre, a town plaza with shopping streets on both sides will be constructed there. The plaza will be designed to complement the proposed railway station, as well as the residential and commercial developments nearby.
A cluster of “Business and Technology Park” sites which covers an area of 124 ha will be established at the south-eastern part of the NDA. Placing its focus on commercial, research and development uses, this part of the NDA is expected to constitute an essential role in the economic development. Meanwhile, the north-eastern part of the NDA is proposed to be the Recreational Area which will comprise various facilities, such as swimming pool, sports centre and sports complex. Fung Kong Shan Park will also be included in the Recreational Area, providing spaces for the public to enjoy diverse recreational activities.
The KTN NDA will also feature a comprehensive network of green spaces, so as to provide adequate recreational areas and a quality living environment to the public. The core zone of Long Valley area which is of high ecological importance will be developed into the 37-ha Long Valley Nature Park. It is expected to be an essential spot which contributes to enhancing the living environment of the area. A bird-watching area, wetland area and facilities including a visitor centre will be provided in the park. The park will also serve as an example showcasing that farming activities and nature conservation can co-exist as there will be areas in the park reserved as an agricultural zone. In addition to this, an area of 45 ha to the north and south of the park will retain its agricultural use. The KTN NDA will integrate its existing advantages in natural resources into the development of new town.
In order to provide convenient access to various parts in the NDA, there will be an open space across the town centre to serve as a bridge between the existing communities in Kwu Tung South and Ho Sheung Heung as well as Yin Kong in the eastern area. The open space will be a major pedestrian spine in the KTN NDA. Furthermore, a comprehensive cycle track network connecting the major activity nodes in the area will be built. The proposed cycle track will also be linked to the existing cycle track network in Fanling and Sheung Shui, creating convenient connections within the KTN NDA as well as to the nearby districts.
Regarding the railway transport network, the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line will pass through the KTN NDA, providing access to different locations. The proposed Kwu Tung Station is also scheduled to be constructed.
The Fanling Highway, which is a part of Route 9, will pass by the NDA to its south. There will also be a comprehensive road-based transport system, facilitating the access between spots within the NDA as well as to other districts in New Territories.
The KTN NDA will be developed into a multi-function area, providing facilities for commercial, residential, and research purposes. Retail and services sectors will also play an important role in the area. It is anticipated to provide approximately 33,300 job opportunities. While pursuing urban development, the existing natural resources will be preserved. By incorporating conservation into development, the KTN NDA will be established as a well-equipped quality community.
Sources:
Kwu Tung North / Fanling North New Development Area Website
Housing units will be provided in the KTN NDA with a distribution of 66:34 in public and private housing developments. Upon full development, it is anticipated to accommodate a total population of 119,000. The central part of the KTN NDA will be located near the proposed Kwu Tung railway station and public transport interchange. With careful and detailed planning and development, the central part will serve as the town centre which provides not only residential flats, but also retail, social and community facilities. To support the function of the town centre, a town plaza with shopping streets on both sides will be constructed there. The plaza will be designed to complement the proposed railway station, as well as the residential and commercial developments nearby.
A cluster of “Business and Technology Park” sites which covers an area of 124 ha will be established at the south-eastern part of the NDA. Placing its focus on commercial, research and development uses, this part of the NDA is expected to constitute an essential role in the economic development. Meanwhile, the north-eastern part of the NDA is proposed to be the Recreational Area which will comprise various facilities, such as swimming pool, sports centre and sports complex. Fung Kong Shan Park will also be included in the Recreational Area, providing spaces for the public to enjoy diverse recreational activities.
The KTN NDA will also feature a comprehensive network of green spaces, so as to provide adequate recreational areas and a quality living environment to the public. The core zone of Long Valley area which is of high ecological importance will be developed into the 37-ha Long Valley Nature Park. It is expected to be an essential spot which contributes to enhancing the living environment of the area. A bird-watching area, wetland area and facilities including a visitor centre will be provided in the park. The park will also serve as an example showcasing that farming activities and nature conservation can co-exist as there will be areas in the park reserved as an agricultural zone. In addition to this, an area of 45 ha to the north and south of the park will retain its agricultural use. The KTN NDA will integrate its existing advantages in natural resources into the development of new town.
In order to provide convenient access to various parts in the NDA, there will be an open space across the town centre to serve as a bridge between the existing communities in Kwu Tung South and Ho Sheung Heung as well as Yin Kong in the eastern area. The open space will be a major pedestrian spine in the KTN NDA. Furthermore, a comprehensive cycle track network connecting the major activity nodes in the area will be built. The proposed cycle track will also be linked to the existing cycle track network in Fanling and Sheung Shui, creating convenient connections within the KTN NDA as well as to the nearby districts.
Regarding the railway transport network, the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line will pass through the KTN NDA, providing access to different locations. The proposed Kwu Tung Station is also scheduled to be constructed.
The Fanling Highway, which is a part of Route 9, will pass by the NDA to its south. There will also be a comprehensive road-based transport system, facilitating the access between spots within the NDA as well as to other districts in New Territories.
The KTN NDA will be developed into a multi-function area, providing facilities for commercial, residential, and research purposes. Retail and services sectors will also play an important role in the area. It is anticipated to provide approximately 33,300 job opportunities. While pursuing urban development, the existing natural resources will be preserved. By incorporating conservation into development, the KTN NDA will be established as a well-equipped quality community.
Sources:
Kwu Tung North / Fanling North New Development Area Website