HK to develop Lantau Island to strengthen economic ties with mainland

HONG KONG - Hong Kong Chief Executive CY Leung said Wednesday that the government endeavors to establish Lantau Island as an essential connecting point for journeys to and from Hong Kong, Zhuhai and Macao.

In his second Policy Address, Leung said when the 55-km Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and the entire 9-km Tuen Mun-Chek Lap Kok Link are completed in 2016 and 2018 respectively, Lantau Island will become the converging point of traffic from Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao.

"This will bring fundamental change to Lantau's functions and development potential," he said.

The artificial island for the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Facilities has an area of about 130 hectares.

"With its proximity to the airport, it will serve as a gateway between Hong Kong and western Pearl River Delta and will take on great value as a 'bridgehead economy'," Leung said.

He added that the government will explore ways to further develop the eastern waters off Lantau Island and neighboring areas, with a view to developing an East Lantau Metropolis for accommodating new population.

Besides, Leung pledged more cooperation with the Pearl River Delta. "The government will play an active role in the development of the Pearl River Delta, support the establishment of a free trade zone in Guangdong and work with the province and various municipalities towards mutual success," he said.

The address, entitled "Support the Needy, Let Youth Flourish, Unleash Hong Kong's Potential," was delivered by Leung at Hong Kong's Legislative Council Wednesday morning.