Letters | Hong Kong’s housing crisis justifies reclamation but more clarity on Lantau Tomorrow Vision is needed

I am writing to express my views on the article “Island residents warn against Lantau Tomorrow Vision reclamation, fearing pollution would be ‘sins for a thousand years’” (November 25). The article provides us more insight into Lantau residents' views on the government’s Lantau Tomorrow Vision, with many of them expressing their concerns regarding the environment.

The residents raise compelling points. The creation of 1,700 hectares of new land would undoubtedly damage the natural environment. However, there are two sides to every coin. Should the reclamation plan be abandoned, Hong Kong’s housing problem would only worsen. With an increasing number of people not being able to afford property, to the extent of nearly 210,000 living in sub-divided units, the urgency of increasing the housing supply is clearly evident.

I believe that the government should continue with the reclamation plan. However, it ought to be mindful of residents’ concerns and also of the effect on Lantau Island’s environment. Moreover, to improve people’s understanding of the plan, it should provide more extensive information rather than vague and ambiguous statements. Finally, it may consider focusing on revamping land policies to alleviate developer hegemony, which is the main cause of rocketing housing prices.