Five-Year Plan: Hong Kong sets binding target for 900 ‘spade-ready sites’ in Northern Metropolis by 2030

Hong Kong has set a binding target to prepare 900 hectares of land for construction in the city’s northern region by 2030, as announced by leader John Lee in the city’s first Five-Year Plan. The ambitious goal of 900 “spade-ready sites” is more than seven times the current number of such sites in the area, according to development chief Bernadette Linn.

The Northern Metropolis development project aims to transform 30,000 hectares of mostly rural land near the border with mainland China into a tech hub, providing additional housing and strengthening the city’s integration with Shenzhen. The land preparation process includes zoning, clearance, and formation, making the sites ready for construction.

While Lee did not mention investment or tender targets related to the Northern Metropolis in his Policy Address, Beijing’s top official on Hong Kong affairs, Xia Baolong, emphasized the project’s significance, urging Hong Kong’s real estate sector to participate in the government’s infrastructure push. Site clearance operations are already underway, and the megaproject is expected to displace thousands of residents from their rural villages, raising concerns about significant environmental impacts.

Lee emphasized that the Northern Metropolis will serve as a key growth engine for post-secondary education and Innovation and Technology (I&T) development, promoting the integrated development of education, technology, and talent. He also highlighted that the project will foster a well-equipped metropolitan area ideal for living, work, and travel, enhancing Hong Kong’s overall competitiveness and sustainable development momentum.