Hong Kong lawmakers have given the initial go-ahead on a HK$336 million (US$43 million) project to convert part of former British army barracks in Tsim Sha Tsui into an activity centre to promote Chinese culture, history and achievements.
Two legislators raised concerns about the price tag although all of those who spoke at a panel meeting on Monday supported the need for a centre designated for enhancing the public’s knowledge of Chinese culture and promoting patriotic education.
The Chinese Culture Experience Centre is expected to receive about 80,000 to 90,000 visitors a year on its completion in 2028.
At the meeting of the Legislative Council’s home affairs, culture and sports panel, lawmakers Kenneth Lau Ip-keung and Maggie Chan Man-ki questioned whether the price tag was too high.
Raistlin Lau Chun, undersecretary for culture, sports and tourism, said the site was a historic building and work had to be carefully carried out for preservation needs.
“There are also many trees nearby and some of them are registered as old and valuable trees. Extra measures will be taken to protect them. There are many limitations,” he added.
