Sham Shui Po trail upgrades necessary, lawmaker says

A lawmaker expressed support for the Home Affairs Department's initiative to revitalize a popular morning walk trail in Sham Shui Po, noting it benefits both the government and residents. The area, also known as Mission Hill or Woh Chai Shan, gained prominence following the recent reopening of the Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir.

On Monday, authorities announced a plan to replace worn-out structures built on government land, such as table tennis tables and exercise equipment. The scheme would also incorporate safety enhancements and slope maintenance works. Residents have until Wednesday to clear the area, with notices already posted along the trail. Kowloon West lawmaker Vincent Cheng welcomed the move, stating that approximately 50 illegal structures need to be addressed before establishing proper recreational facilities.

Residents have expressed the need for such amenities due to the scarcity of recreational options in the community. However, Cheng emphasized that these structures occupy government land illegally and pose dangers, particularly during recent rainfalls when soil erosion becomes evident. The government has indicated that the revitalization will proceed in phases from late August to September, also seeking the assistance of religious leaders in removing Buddhist statuettes from the vicinity and promising ongoing communication with relevant stakeholders.