Tung Chung housing project concrete fails test again

The Housing Authority (HA) disclosed on Tuesday that concrete test samples from Block 2 of Tung Chung's public housing project failed to satisfy contractual specifications. This is the most recent issue impacting the estate, with earlier reports indicating components in Blocks 3, 4, and 5 needed further examination. In response to inquiries, the HA instructed the contractor to halt concrete pouring, extract concrete cores for analysis at an accredited lab, and await test results.

Of the 12 samples analyzed, representing roughly 17 percent of the total, strength results ranged from 23 to 66 percent higher than the standard, all meeting design and contractual requirements. The HA's engineering department will decide if the concrete strength of affected structural elements needs reviewing after all test results arrive.

If a review is required, the contractor must submit a remedial plan for HA approval before resuming concrete work. Expected completion of full test results is September 25, with the HA anticipating minimal impact on project progress.