At the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area, the Civil Engineering & Development Department (CEDD) is breathing new life into facilities along the Tin Shui Wai river channel.
Transformed riverside
For the first phase of this transformation, the project team zeroed in on a stretch of the river between Tin Shui Estate and Tin Wah Estate.
CEDD Architect Chan Man-kong said they centred the design on the junction of the Tin Shui Wai river and Ha Tsuen channel, creating art paintings on the walls and pavement.
“This spot is precisely the starting point of the eastern side of the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area and is adjacent to Tin Shui Wai,” noted Mr Chan.
“On the left, is the vibrant town centre of the new development area and the happy smiles of the residents, while on the right is the lively traditional dragon dance celebration.
“Linking these two scenes together is the Tin Sum riverside and floodable open space in the middle. We have also specially incorporated the scenery of Lau Fau Shan and Deep Bay, as well as migratory birds, horseshoe crabs and fiddler crabs.”
Mr Chan added that the mural represents the future of the new development area.
Facility face-lifts
Along the riverbank, two pergolas have been completely reimagined, each redesigned with its own distinct charm and character.
“The pavilion walls are decorated with the logo, colours and patterns of the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area,” explained Mr Chan. “And the design of another pavilion takes the common egrets found along the Tin Shui Wai river as the theme, using egret silhouettes with shades of blue to represent the sky and river water, creating an effect with simple patterns and lively colours.”
Turning this vision into reality relied on seamless teamwork and a shared goal across various departments.
In addition to the pavilion beautification, the CEDD was also responsible for feature art paintings and the provision of fitness bikes.
CEDD Engineer Bonnie Kwan noted that the Leisure & Cultural Services Department carried out the riverside landscaping, the Highways Department relayed the paving blocks and beautified the railings, while the Drainage Services Department shortened the fencing, all in an effort to make the overall environment more layered and more welcoming.
Embracing enhancements
Following the completion of the beautification works, the upgraded waterfront has been warmly received. Residents have said the riverside space is now more comfortable and vibrant, encouraging more people to stroll along the promenade and enjoy leisurely activities by the water.
CEDD Chief Engineer Chung Lok-chin said preparations are now underway for the next phase of work, with plans to select outstanding design proposals through a design competition to further enhance the riverside space through small-scale works.
“In the long term, under the planning of the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area, the western bank of the Tin Shui Wai river channel will be transformed into a 2-km-long riverside promenade,” explained Mr Chung.
“Bridges will be added to improve accessibility between both riversides, and more trees and flowers will be planted to beautify the environment for public use.”
