HK hopes to ace next level with Victoria Park revamp

Hong Kong is planning to revamp Victoria Park, transforming it into a venue suitable for larger tennis tournaments and other major sports and entertainment events, according to the government's redevelopment plan. The Policy Address revealed that authorities are transforming Victoria Park Centre Court and other facilities into an all-weather, multi-purpose venue capable of hosting higher-level sports and performance events.

Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law mentioned Victoria Park's central location and the success of last year's National Games beach volleyball events as strong factors for its selection. She also highlighted the venue's location in a mature urban area with convenient transport, noting that the demand for sports facilities and synergy are strong, making it suitable for major sporting events that can boost the local economy.

The government aims to render the site suitable for staging at least ATP 500-level tennis events, with the potential to expand for larger events and serve as a performance space if resources permit. Law emphasized the venue's capacity to host at least 7,000 seats, with the possibility of reaching 10,000 seats. She expressed a greater expectation to host ATP 1000 standard events if resources and venue size allow, which would significantly boost visitor attraction and provide Hong Kong athletes with more chances to compete in top-tier tennis events.

The redeveloped Victoria Park could also host basketball, volleyball, and other ball sports due to its plans to become an all-weather, multi-purpose facility. Law explained that the initial plan set a 60 percent target for non-local performances at Kai Tak Sports Park, as such shows currently account for about 40 to 50 percent. This target reflects the park's suitability for world-tour-scale performances, although Hong Kong has other venues like the Hong Kong Coliseum for local performances.