The West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) will be a landmark development that enhances Hong Kong's position as a world city of culture. The 40-hectare waterfront development will bring together a vibrant mix of performing and visual arts, becoming a showpiece for urban design and a meeting point for the local and international arts communities. The WKCD will have at least 20 hectares of parkland and public open space, with a continuous waterfront promenade, and will be serviced by an automated people mover. Long-term cultural, community and commercial partnerships based on "community-driven" and "people-oriented" principles will encourage a lively arts and cultural scene for generations to come.


The Government invited proposals from the private sector in September 2003. Of the five proposals received, three met the basic requirements and were screened in for further assessment. The Government will take into account assessment findings and public views in determining the negotiation and selection process for a preferred proposal. It will consult the Legislative Council and the Town Planning Board and seek approval from the Executive Council before signing a provisional agreement with the successful proponent. The successful proponent will design, finance and develop the project and operate, maintain and manage the core arts and cultural facilities for 30 years. Construction is expected to begin in April 2007, with the first phase of the project opening in 2011.


To help the public better understand the development of the WKCD and to encourage an informed discussion, the Government is staging a consultation exercise, which includes an exhibition of the three screened-in proposals. The consultation period will end on June 30.


For more information on the WKCD, members of the public are welcome to visit the website
http://www.hab.gov.hk/en/policy_responsibilities/Culture/wkcd.htm