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Planning permission resubmitted for Sha Ha Archaeological Site
The Sai Kung Town Planning Board has received an updated planning application from New World Development, for land near a site of historical importance in Sha Ha. Covering 3,000 square metres, the Sha Ha archaeological site was discovered in 1996 and features artefacts dating back to the Late Neolithic period and Bronze Age, along with relics from the Han, Song and Ming dynasties. Located in an already built-up area on the Tai Mong Tsai Road, New World Development Group have submitted their proposal for a new residential project, which would dramatically increase the number of homes available in the region. If approved, the project would construct 15 residential buildings over an area covering 59,263 square metres. These towers, which would each stand four to ten floors tall, would be home to 972 individual units. The application also includes plans for a clubhouse and 816 parking spaces. New World’s previous application, submitted in 2018, was rejected in June last year due to concerns for the neighbouring archaeological site. In response, the new plan has reduced the number of buildings in the new proposal from 86 to 15.
Savings on longhaul bus fares The Kowloon Motor Bus Company (KMB), has rolled out a new Regional Short-journey Sectional Fare Scheme between Sai Kung and Tseung Kwan O. Passengers with an Octopus card can enjoy budget fares on 16 different KMB routes, starting from just $4. Sai Kung is the second region in Hong Kong to adopt the scheme, following its success in the north–west New Territories of Tuen Mun, Yuen Long and Tin Shui Wai. One such service that’s sure to be a hit with local residents is Route 94, which connects Sai Kung to Wong Shek Pier. KMB have confirmed a new sectional fare of just $6 for the journey. Simply tap the card on the onboard validator before alighting and enjoy a discounted trip.
Registration open for $5,000 consumption vouchers for permanent residents The Hong Kong government has officially launched a new scheme that means free money for permanent residents and some HKID holders. Each eligible individual can receive a $5,000 consumption voucher. Accepted payment methods under this scheme are Alipay HK, WeChat Pay HK, Tap & Go and Octopus. The $5,000 consumption voucher can be used at retail shops, market
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stalls, department stores, supermarkets, convenient stores, restaurants and fast food shops. Some recreational facilities, beauty salons and public transport are also open as long as they accept the agreed payment methods. This means everything from Sasa, Mannings and McDonald’s to Fortress, Broadway and even Gucci, Dior or Chanel. Applications must be submitted by August 14.
