Eco-tourism push kicks off | The Standard
Jamie Liu
The Development Bureau yesterday began inviting prospective developers to submit expression of interest for eco-tourism development proposals at three coastal areas in Lamma Island, South Lantau and Lau Fau Shan.
For the first time, authorities are adopting the Northern Metropolis “large-scale land disposal” approach to develop tourism and recreation areas, requiring developers to prepare sites and build public facilities before retaining private residential sites for profit.
The three projects are: the ex-Lamma Quarry Site, the South Lantau Eco-Recreation Corridor, as well as Tsim Bei Tsui and Pak Nai Eco-tourism Nodes, which are set for tender in the second half of 2026, 2027 and 2028, respectively.
The government plans to transform the 25-hectare former quarry site on Lamma Island into an island resort and low-rise luxury housing complete with a marina capable of accommodating 150 to 200 yachts, including superyachts.
For the 9.3-hectare coastal corridor along the south of Lantau Island, spanning across Cheung Sha, Pui O, Shui Hau and Shek Pik, the government envisions the area to provide a variety of recreation and eco-tourism facilities. For Tsim Bei Tsui and Pak Nai, which takes up about 55 hectares in northwestern New Territories near Lau Fau Shan, the government proposed developing wellness tourism, eco-advanture, niche sports and glamping.
The government said the Lamma site would be sold to a single developer or consortium, while the other two sites are open to multiple developers.
The bureau said the launch for EOI submission takes place before the start of any statutory planning process, which it believed would expedite the development.
When asked about ecological conservation for these development projects, a Development Bureau spokesperson emphasized that the planning process avoided “ecologically sensitive” areas and that developers would be required to submit plans for conserving the natural environment and mitigating environmental impacts.
Highlighting the goal of offering new tourism experiences through these projects, the spokesperson said there are no prerequisites regarding the types of developers or companies for expression of interest submissions. Proposals from mainland, overseas and local enterprises are all welcome.
The submission period will last three months. Interested parties must submit their EOIs by noon on July 2. The bureau will also hold three briefing sessions.
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