Deconstruction
Unauthorized Building Works
Quite a few workmen are getting extra jobs in Sai Kung lately but rather than constructing they are removing illegal structures. The Buildings Dept. is on a blitz – yes, that's what they call it – forcing the removal of unauthorized buildings works (UBW).
There are a "vast number of UBW in Hong Kong" says Jonathon Ho, from the BD's Information Unit. The reason behind ordering their removal is "to ensure building safety and improve the living environment." UBW include cooling towers, projecting air conditioning support frames, canopy structures, cages, flower racks and any other dilapidated or abandoned structures attached or projecting from external walls. Buildings are targeted according to specific selection criteria, including the condition of the building, the number of UBW on exterior walls, the building location (especially in an area of heavy pedestrian flow), and whether any complaints have been received.
In Sai Kung Town, eight blocks were issued orders for UBW removal in 2001 and another 14 blocks were given similar removal orders in 2005.
Besides these types of UBW, the BD also launched a clearance program for illegal rooftop structures (IRS) on single staircase buildings. The roof is normally considered an area of refuge in case of fire and therefore any obstruction to this escape route poses a serious fire risk to occupants. "So far, the BD has removed the IRS on 9 single staircase buildings in Sai Kung Town," explained Mr. Ho. Out of the total of 50 single staircase buildings targeted for action on IRS recently, 7 are along Po Tung Road. Other areas included in this clearance operation include the buildings bounded by Po Tung Road, Man Yee Street and
Yi Chun Street in Man Yee Wan New Village and the building clusters at Fuk Man Street and King Man Street.
Although it may be necessary for safety purposes, the expenses incurred in removal and remodelling may not be a viable option for some businesses. Faced with rising rents and these added expenses Explore wonders if the landscape of SK town is headed for change.
Photo from BD's website: http://www.bd.gov.hk/english/services/index_exist2.html#ubw