The Hong Kong Tourism Board’s plan to install small lights at selected points along Peak walking paths is being revised after criticism of the fixtures’ appearance and concerns about possible effects on trees. A member of the public interviewed on a radio programme questioned whether lights attached to trees could affect their growth and said the installations could detract from the Peak’s quiet, natural atmosphere.
Central and Western District councillor Dr. Chan Kin-Keung, Eugene, S.B.S., J.P., said the project had been paused in response to public views. He said the coverings around the work looked disorderly, but described the aim of adding attractions to Hong Kong as worthwhile.
On 27 October, Tourism Commissioner Ann Chan Wai-yan, Hong Kong Tourism Board representatives and more than 10 district councillors inspected the Board’s installation work on Lugard Road and Harlech Road.
The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau said it would use feedback from the inspection to further improve the arrangements and consult councillors at a Central and Western District Council meeting on 12 November.
The Bureau said no trees had been removed or pruned during the work. It said the project team had consulted relevant departments and a registered arborist on how to install the lights, and that the arborist would monitor the trees regularly.
Dr. Chan also said the government would issue new guidance on the project on 28 October.