Sustainable underground space development in Hong Kong

Abstract

Underground space development is regarded as an effective approach to promote a quality living environment in compact city. In Hong Kong, urban underground space developed by private sectors seems not well organized. Besides, underground use in HK can be multifunctional. Thirdly, inner design in some underground spaces is not desirable and lacks vibrancy. Fourthly, underground space development in HK lacks governmental incentives. Last but not least, the regulations and legal loophole on property rights are also controversial. Through in-depth sustainability evaluation of two case studies: TST and Umeda Osaka, research finds out urban underground space development is a good approach for urban sustainability in Hong Kong if with careful integrated planning. Then the specific underground uses for urban area, New Town and Island area are put forward. Among them, underground shopping street is recommended in the highly populated "Commercial+Tourism" areas, such as TST. The research argues that the effect of recreational use underground space development in TST is weak and only by shifting the tourism flow underground can improve the residents' living quality. Commercial and recreational use underground space development are suggested to develop first in Hong Kong. Finally, measures for sustainable underground space development in Hong Kong are put forward in terms of improved living environment, safety, linkage problem, third party operating, reserved space for planning, illumination, ventilation and landscape design etc. And research argues that a master plan in district scale is in urgent need and the significance of governmental incentive (e.g. plot ratio privilege for underground space), environmental-friendly design and recommendations on fire, flood, and crime safety are made on the existing Building Ordinances and relevant Codes.