minutes of the 4th meeting of traffic and transport committee · 2017-11-20 · ms polly mok...

North District Council (2016-2019)

Minutes of the 4th Meeting of

Traffic and Transport Committee

Date : 11 July 2016 (Monday)

Time : 2:40 p.m.

Venue : North District Council Conference Room

Present:

Chairman

Mr LAU Kwok-fan, MH*

Vice-chairman

Mr TSANG King-chung, Kent*

Members

Dr HO Shu-kwong, Raymond*

Mr HAU Chi-keung (3:28 p.m. – 4:01 p.m.)

Mr HAU Fuk-tat, Simon*

Mr YIU Ming (2:40 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.)

Mr CHAN Yuk-ming*

Mr CHAN Wai-tat*

Mr WONG Wang-to, MH*

Mr PANG Chun-sing, George, MH*

Mr TSANG Hing-lung (2:40 p.m. – 5:54 p.m.)

Mr WAN Wo-tat, Warwick*

Mr WAN Wo-fai, MH (2:40 p.m. – 5:54 p.m.)

Mr LIU Hing-hung*

Mr LAU Ki-fung*

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Mr TANG Kun-nin, Tony, MH (2:40 p.m. – 5:47 p.m.)

Mr LARM Wai-leung*

Mr SO Sai-chi, SBS, MH (2:40 p.m. – 5:19 p.m.)

Co-opted Members

Mr WU King-pang (2:40 p.m. – 5:54 p.m.)

Mr CHAN Chi-wai*

Mr CHEUNG Ka-fung*

Mr MAN Sun-choi*

Mr PUN Hau-man*

Secretary

Mr HUNG Cheung-hong, Corey Executive Officer (District Council) 4,

North District Office

Remarks: * Members who attended the whole meeting

( ) Time of attendance of Members

In Attendance:

Mr YAU Kin-chung, JP District Officer (North), Home Affairs

Department

Ms KWONG Ting-lok, Maggie Assistant District Officer (North) 1,

Home Affairs Department

Mr SO Chun-kit, Herman Assistant District Officer (North) 2,

Home Affairs Department

Mr NG Koon-hung, John Senior Transport Officer/North,

Transport Department

Mr YUEN Wai-cheung Engineer/North 1, Transport Department

Ms TSE Wai Engineer/North 2, Transport Department

Mr WONG Tiu-kai District Engineer/North, Highways

Department

http://www.directory.gov.hk/details.jsp?lang=eng&dn=cn%3D1243006557%2Cou%3DLCSD%2Cou%3DPeople%2Co%3DGOVERNMENT%2Cc%3DHK

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Ms MA Oi-suet, Teresa Engineer/20 (New Territories East),

Civil Engineering and Development

Department

Mr YEUNG Chi-keung Housing Manager/Tai Po and North 1,

Housing Department

Mr WONG Chi-man Station Sergeant, Border District Traffic

Team, Hong Kong Police Force

Mr TSUI Yick-fook Station Sergeant, Tai Po District Traffic

Team, Hong Kong Police Force

Mr Job CHEUNG Assistant Manager (Operations), The

Kowloon Motor Bus Company (1933)

Limited

Mr LEE Shut-hang, Ingmar Senior Planning and Development

Officer, The Kowloon Motor Bus

Company (1933) Limited

Mr SEE Chiu-keung Operations Officer, The Kowloon Motor

Bus Company (1933) Limited

Mr KUNG Syu-yan, Louis Operations Manager, Citybus Limited

Agenda Item 2

Mr KEUNG Sin-kwok Senior Engineer 9/Central Wanchai

Bypass, Highways Department

Mr LEUNG Ho-san Engineer 12/Central Wanchai Bypass,

Highways Department

Ms Polly MOK Associate, Ove Arup & Partners Hong

Kong Limited

Ms Viola CHAN Senior Communications Officer, Ove

Arup & Partners Hong Kong Limited

Agenda Items 3 and 4

Mr LEUNG Man-tik, Sean Assistant Public Relations Manager -

External Affairs, MTR Corporation

Limited

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Agenda Item 5

Mr MA Kiu-sang Director, Sheung Shui Public Light Bus

(Scheduled) Service Company

Limited

Mr CHOW Lai-fan Operating Officer, Sheung Shui Public

Light Bus (Scheduled) Service

Company Limited

Agenda Items 6 and 25(d)

Mr WOO Kin-keung General Manager, Long Win Bus

Company Limited

Mr TSZE Chi-ho Senior Operations Officer, Long Win

Bus Company Limited

Mr LAW Yiu-wah Planning and Support Officer I, Long

Win Bus Company Limited

Absent:

Mr LAM Cheuk-ting

Opening Remarks

The Chairman welcomed Members and representatives of

government departments and organisations to the meeting, particularly Mr

Job CHEUNG, Assistant Manager (Operations), the Kowloon Motor Bus

Company (1933) Limited (“KMB”) and Mr YUEN Wai-cheung,

Engineer/North 1, Transport Department (“TD”) who were in attendance for

the first time. Mr YUEN was the successor of the outgoing representative

Mr NG Ka-wah.

2. The Chairman stated that Mr LEUNG Kwok-kin and Mr LEE

Yan-kit had written to the North District Council (“NDC”) respectively to

resign from the Committee as co-opted members. He asked Members to

note the matter.

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Item 1 - Confirmation of Minutes of the 3rd Meeting held on 9 May

2016

3. The Committee confirmed the minutes of the 3rd meeting.

Item 2 - Preliminary Design Proposals for PWP Item No. 6854TH -

Widening of Eastern Section of Lin Ma Hang Road (between

Tsung Yuen Ha and Lin Ma Hang)

(Paper No. 51/2016)

4. The Chairman welcomed Mr KEUNG Sin-kwok, Senior

Engineer 9/Central Wanchai Bypass and Mr LEUNG Ho-san,

Engineer 12/Central Wanchai Bypass from the Highways Department

(“HyD”), and Ms Polly MOK, Associate and Ms Viola CHAN, Senior

Communications Officer of Ove Arup & Partners Hong Kong Limited to

the meeting.

5. Mr KEUNG Sin-kwok and Ms Polly MOK presented Paper

No. 51/2016 by PowerPoint. The PowerPoint slides were at the annex.

6. Mr WAN Wo-fai urged the HyD to commence the project as soon

as possible. He also put forward the following opinions and suggestions:

(a) Since the HyD would resume land for the project, it should take this

opportunity to straighten the road as far as possible when

implementing the road widening works;

(b) With the further opening up of the Frontier Closed Area, it was

estimated that over a thousand people would return to reside in Lin

Ma Hang Village. The HyD should provide pavements on both

sides of Lin Ma Hang Road and construct a cycle track along the

road to offer convenience to residents;

(c) The HyD should resume more land to allow sufficient space for

buses to turn around at Lin Ma Hang Road.

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7. Mr MAN Sun-choi opined that there was an urgent need for the

works concerned. Besides, he suggested the HyD resume more land to

provide sufficient space for buses to turn around at Lin Ma Hang Road.

8. Mr Warwick WAN considered that the widened Lin Ma Hang Road,

with a width of 6.75 m of the carriageway, was not wide enough. He

suggested increasing the width to 7 m to avoid obstruction caused by

vehicles parking at the roadside.

9. Mr KEUNG Sin-kwok responded to Members’ opinions and

suggestions as follows:

(a) The HyD had to consider the views of various stakeholders of the

project concerned, including green groups’ concerns about the

ecological impact arising from the project. After widening of Lin

Ma Hang Road, the carriageway would be 6.75 m wide and it met

the standard for rural roads. According to the assessment of the

works consultant, it was confirmed that the 6.75 m wide

carriageway and the pavement on one side of the road could cope

with the traffic flow and future development needs while reducing

the ecological impact arising from the works;

(b) The HyD would design the widening works of Lin Ma Hang Road

according to the relevant standards so that road safety could be

enhanced by road bend and sightline improvement;

(c) Construction of cycle tracks should be considered as part of the

planning of the cycle track network. The project concerned did

not include the construction of a cycle track.

10. Mr WAN Wo-fai suggested the HyD resume more land for

construction of a cycle track or an additional pavement along Lin Ma Hang

Road in future.

11. Mr CHEUNG Ka-fung believed that there would be more

pedestrians and vehicles gaining access to Liantang/Heung Yuen Wai

Boundary Control Point via Lin Ma Hang Road in future. He worried that

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Lin Ma Hang Road would be overloaded.

12. Mr LIU Hing-hung opined that the HyD should undertake

long-term planning and study the feasibility of constructing a cycle track at

Lin Ma Hang Road under the programme concerned as soon as possible.

13. Mr George PANG suggested providing pavements on both sides of

Lin Ma Hang Road to avoid accidents to pedestrians crossing the road.

Moreover, he requested the HyD to construct a cycle track along Lin Ma

Hang Road.

14. The Chairman asked if the HyD agreed to construct pavements on

both sides of Lin Ma Hang Road and a cycle track at the roadside.

15. Mr KEUNG Sin-kwok responded that the HyD had to consider

opinions of different stakeholders when they planned for the project

concerned. If pavements were provided on both sides of Lin Ma Hang

Road, additional ecological impact to the roadside area would arise and it

was expected that green groups would object to the proposal. According

to the study conducted by the works consultant, the current design proposal

was appropriate as it could cope with future pedestrian and traffic flow

while being able to reduce ecological impact of the works.

16. Mr WAN Wo-fai suggested the HyD resume more land for

construction of a cycle track or additional pavement along Lin Ma Hang

Road in future. Besides, he did not wish to see any delay of the project

which was caused by objections from green groups.

17. Mr George PANG believed that there would be a lot of pedestrians

and vehicles travelling to Liantang/Heung Yuen Wai Boundary Control

Point via Lin Ma Hang Road in future. The HyD should undertake

long-term planning and provide two pavements and a cycle track under the

project.

18. Mr CHAN Wai-tat stated that bicycle was an important mode of

transport for residents of the New Territories. The HyD should have a

proper planning of cycle tracks for the project concerned.

19. Noting that Lin Ma Hang Road has a total length of more than

3 km, Mr CHEUNG Ka-fung remarked that the HyD should provide space

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in the middle section of the road for vehicles to turn around. This could

prevent the traffic at Lin Ma Hang Road from coming to a halt in case of

traffic accidents.

20. The Chairman asked the HyD to consider Members’ views

seriously, especially the suggestion of reserving land for building a cycle

track.

21. Mr KEUNG Sin-kwok responded that the width of the works site

would be larger than the proposed road to facilitate the construction works.

The HyD would further study the need of the works site to tie in with future

development. He reiterated that the project did not include the provision

of a cycle track.

22. The Chairman concluded that the Committee supported the

preliminary design proposals for PWP Item No. 6854TH - widening of

eastern section of Lin Ma Hang Road (between Tsung Yuen Ha and Lin Ma

Hang). He asked the HyD to consider adopting Members’ views, and

suggested that the discussion on the subject matter should come to an end

and not be carried over to the next meeting.

Item 3 - Proposal: Request Provision of Lifts and Escalators at Exit A of

MTR Fanling Station

(Paper No. 52/2016 – Proposal)

(Paper No. 78/2016 – Written Reply of the HyD)

23. The Chairman welcomed Mr Sean LEUNG, Assistant Public

Relations Manager - External Affairs, MTR Corporation Limited

(“MTRCL”), to the meeting.

24. Mr Warwick WAN presented Paper No. 52/2016.

HyD

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25. Mr Sean LEUNG responded as follows:

(a) The MTRCL had been striving to provide a comfortable and

convenient travelling environment for passengers. At present,

there was at least one barrier-free access in every MTR station to

cater for passengers in need. These accesses were equipped with

passenger lifts, ramps, stair lifts, etc.;

(b) Passengers with disabilities or those with mobility difficulties or

luggage could use the ramp at Exit C of MTR Fanling Station to

enter and leave the station. After entering the paid area of the

station through Exit C, passengers could go to platform no. 2

directly to get on a Hung Hom-bound train. Passengers bound for

Lo Wu or Lok Ma Chau could use the passenger lifts to go to

platform no. 1 via the station concourse. Moreover,

wheelchair-bound passengers from or to Fanling Town Centre

could use the stair lift to enter or leave the station;

(c) According to observation, the pedestrian flow entering and leaving

MTR Fanling Station was smooth in general. At present, the

access facilities of the station could cope with the needs of

passengers and residents nearby. The MTRCL had no plan to

provide additional lift at the station at this stage. Under special

circumstances, however, residents who wished to go to other exits

of the station via the paid area might approach station staff for help.

Moreover, if the government departments concerned found it

necessary to install a lift at the footbridge at Exit A1, the MTRCL

would make every effort to facilitate the works.

26. Mr WONG Tiu-kai presented Paper No. 78/2016.

27. Mr TSANG Hing-lung pointed out that Exit A2 had the highest

pedestrian flow among all exits of MTR Fanling Station. It was

inconvenient for passengers in need to go to other exits with barrier-free

facilities from Exit A. The MTRCL should provide barrier-free facilities

at Exit A. Besides, he asked the HyD whether the location mentioned in

the proposal met the requirements of the new round of “Universal

Accessibility Programme”.

28. Mr LAU Ki-fung stated that the MTRCL or the HyD should

provide additional lifts at MTR Fanling Station as soon as possible to

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facilitate the access of passengers in need.

29. Mr CHAN Yuk-ming remarked that the issue had been discussed

for a long time, but no positive response had been received from the

MTRCL or government departments. He opined that the barrier-free

facilities at other exits of MTR Fanling Station as mentioned by the

MTRCL had failed to truly enhance pedestrian access for residents. The

MTRCL should provide barrier-free facilities at Exit A.

30. Mr Warwick WAN stated that it was irresponsible for the MTRCL

to request passengers in need to go to Exit C from Exit A to use the

barrier-free facilities to enter or leave MTR Fanling Station. He requested

the MTRCL and the HyD to give serious consideration to Members’ views

and explain why barrier-free facilities could not be provided at Exit A.

31. Mr CHEUNG Ka-fung said that it was difficult for those in need to

go to Exit C from Exit A of MTR Fanling Station to use the barrier-free

facilities. The MTRCL should provide barrier-free facilities at Exit A as

soon as possible.

32. Mr George PANG suggested the MTRCL provide a lift at Exit A

of MTR Fanling Station for the convenience of those in need and

facilitating pedestrian flow.

33. Mr Sean LEUNG responded that the MTRCL had been devoting

resources to upgrade station facilities. At present, there was at least one

barrier-free access in every MTR station connecting to the ground level.

Noting Members’ views, the MTRCL would pay attention to the pedestrian

flow at the station and the future development of the district, and would

conduct reviews when necessary.

34. Mr WONG Tiu-kai responded that the HyD had been checking

with the Lands Department (“LandsD”) about the land lease conditions of

the footbridge concerned to see if it met the requirements of the new round

of “Universal Accessibility Programme”.

35. Mr LAU Ki-fung urged the HyD and the MTRCL to finish the

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study as soon as possible and provide barrier-free facilities at Exit A of

MTR Fanling Station.

36. The Chairman asked the HyD and the MTRCL to follow up the

relevant issues. He recommended that the discussion on the subject matter

should come to an end and not be carried over to the next meeting.

(Mr HAU Chi-keung joined the meeting at this juncture.)

Item 4 - Proposal: Request Provision of Additional Air Cooler Facilities

and Fans at Platforms of MTR Sheung Shui and Fanling

Stations

(Paper No. 53/2016)

37. Mr LAU Ki-fung presented Paper No. 53/2016.

38. Mr Sean LEUNG responded that the platforms of Sheung Shui and

Fanling Stations, like most of the East Rail platforms, were non-enclosed

and adopted a natural ventilation design. To improve the air ventilation at

the platforms, the MTRCL had installed a number of fans at different

locations of the platforms. MTRCL staff would closely monitor the

operation of the fans to ensure passengers enjoy a comfortable travelling

environment. To further improve the travelling environment for

passengers, the MTRCL had announced earlier that more fans would be

provided in 31 MTR stations, including Sheung Shui and Fanling stations.

39. Mr CHAN Wai-tat said he had received complaints from MTRCL

staff that it was hot and stuffy in Sheung Shui and Fanling Stations. The

MTRCL should take improvement measures as soon as possible.

40. Mr LAU Ki-fung stated that the fans could not serve the whole

platform in Sheung Shui and Fanling Stations, and it was hottest at both

ends of the platforms.

HyD

MTRCL

Action

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41. Mr LIU Hing-hung said that the platforms of Sheung Shui and

Fanling Stations had poor ventilation and the fans could not serve the entire

platform. He suggested the MTRCL provide more fans as soon as

possible to improve the waiting environment at the platforms.

42. Mr CHAN Chi-wai mentioned that there were not enough fans at

Sheung Shui and Fanling Stations, and some fans were found not

functioning occasionally.

43. Dr Raymond HO remarked that with the weather becoming hotter

and hotter, the MTRCL should provide more fans as soon as possible to

improve the waiting environment at the platforms.

44. Mr CHEUNG Ka-fung suggested the MTRCL consider installing

other types of fans with reference to the design of Sheung Shui and Fanling

Stations.

45. The Chairman asked the MTRCL to follow up the relevant issues

and recommended that the subject matter be referred to the Working Group

on Improvement of MTR Services and Facilities in North District for

follow up.

Item 6 - Proposal: Request Provision of Overnight Bus Services

between North District and the Airport

(Paper No. 55/2016)

46. Since the representatives of Sheung Shui Public Light Bus

(Scheduled) Service Company Limited (“PLB Operator”) had not arrived

yet, the Chairman suggested agenda item 6 be discussed first.

47. The Chairman welcomed the representatives from Long Win Bus

Company Limited (“LWB”), namely Mr WOO Kin-keung, General

Manager, Mr TSZE Chi-ho, Senior Operations Officer, and Mr LAW

Yiu-wah, Planning and Support Officer I to the meeting.

MTRCL

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48. The Chairman presented Paper No. 55/2016.

49. Mr LAW Yiu-wah responded that the LWB had been discussing

the proposal with the TD and would keep the Committee informed of any

progress.

50. Mr John NG responded that the TD would study the proposal and

report to the Committee when there was any feasible option.

51. Noting that bus route No. N42A was always fully loaded, Mr

CHAN Wai-tat opined that the LWB should provide overnight airport bus

services to North District as soon as possible.

52. Mr LAU Ki-fung remarked that the departure time of N42A was

too early that passengers’ demand could not be met.

53. Mr PUN Hau-man and Mr CHEUNG Ka-fung said that the existing

airport bus services in the small hours could not meet passengers’ needs.

The LWB should provide overnight airport bus services to North District as

soon as possible and consider increasing the frequency of N42A.

54. Mr LAW Yiu-wah responded that the LWB would study the

possibility of increasing the frequency of the airport bus services in the

small hours.

55. Mr John NG responded that the TD had noted Members’ views and

would discuss the issue with the LWB.

56. The Chairman asked the TD and the LWB to follow up the relevant

issues and recommended that the discussion on the subject matter be

continued at the next meeting.

TD

LWB

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Item 5 - Proposal: Request Increasing the Frequency of Minibus Nos.

50K and 51K

(Paper No. 54/2016)

57. The Chairman welcomed Mr MA Kiu-sang, Director and Mr

CHOW Lai-fan, Operating Officer of the PLB Operator to the meeting.

58. Mr HAU Chi-keung presented Paper No. 54/2016.

59. Mr CHOW Lai-fan responded that the PLB Operator had increased

the number of minibuses and manpower for route No. 50K, resulting in

reduced complaints concerning the route. Moreover, the PLB Operator

had increased the number of minibuses for route No. 51K and adjusted the

service frequency of the branch lines. The PLB Operator would consider

Members’ views and handle the issue proactively.

60. Mr John NG responded that the TD had been monitoring the

services of the minibus routes and found that the operation of the routes had

improved. The PLB Operator had converted the special departures of route

No. 50K to regular services and increased the frequency of the special

departures of route No. 51K to meet passenger demand during peak hours.

61. Mr Simon HAU reflected that there were many passengers waiting

for minibuses at Tong Kung Leng during the morning peak hours and urged

the PLB Operator to improve the situation as soon as possible. Besides, he

complained that the illegally parked trucks at San Fung Avenue, Sheung

Shui during the morning peak hours had obstructed the traffic flow and

affected the minibus services.

62. Mr Kent TSANG remarked that the inadequate frequency of

minibus services had been a long-standing problem, and it was worsened by

the increasing population in the rural areas. The TD and the PLB Operator

should rectify the situation.

63. Mr LIU Hing-hung suggested the PLB Operator further increase

the number of minibuses to meet passenger demand.

64. Mr HAU Chi-keung said many residents had complained that there

had been frequent lost trips of various minibus routes during lunch hours.

The PLB Operator should improve the lunch break arrangements for drivers.

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Besides, he suggested that dilapidated minibuses should be replaced.

65. Mr Tony TANG stated that minibuses were an important mode of

transport for rural residents, and the service level of minibus services had

directly affected residents who were going to work or school. He urged

the PLB Operator to address the needs of the rural residents and improve the

minibus services as soon as possible.

66. The Chairman remarked that many residents had complained that

there had been frequent lost trips of various minibus routes during lunch

hours. The PLB Operator should improve the situation.

67. Mr CHOW Lai-fan responded that there had been a relatively tight

supply of night shift drivers for the PLB Operator. Also, minibus trips

were affected by the vehicles illegally parked at San Fung Avenue and San

Wan Road. The PLB Operator would consider adjusting the service

frequency and the number of minibuses and improving the refuelling

arrangements so as to enhance the operation.

68. Mr John NG responded that the TD would monitor the operation of

all the minibus routes and request the PLB Operator to identify targeted

solutions to the problems.

69. The Chairman asked the TD and the PLB Operator to follow up the

relevant issues and recommended that the subject matter be referred to the

Working Group on Bus and Mini-bus Services in North District for follow

up.

(Mr HAU Chi-keung left the meeting at this juncture.)

TD

PLB

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Item 7 - Proposal: Request Increasing the Frequency of Bus No. 277E

and Extending the Service Hours

(Paper No. 56/2016)

Item 8 - Proposal: Request Increasing the Frequency of 277E and

Extending the Service Hours to the Small Hours

(Paper No. 57/2016)

70. The Chairman suggested discussing items 7 and 8 as a combined

item since the two proposals were both related to the frequency and service

hours of bus route No. 277E.

71. Mr WONG Wang-to presented Paper No. 56/2016.


73. Mr Ingmar LEE responded that the KMB had suggested enhancing

the service of route No. 277E in the Bus Route Planning Programme

2016-17 of North District and would implement the improvement measure

later. The KMB would also consider extending the morning service of the

route concerned. However, since the ridership was low for the last trip of

the route towards North District, the KMB had no plan to extend the

evening operating hours for the time being.

74. Mr John NG responded that the TD would maintain close liaison

with the KMB and expected an early implementation of the proposal of

enhancing the service of route No. 277E as mentioned in the Bus Route

Planning Programme 2016-17 of North District. Moreover, the TD would

monitor the utilisation rate of 277E and consider extending the service hours

when necessary.

75. Mr Kent TSANG said that residents of North District had a great

demand for the bus service of route No. 277E. He hoped the service level

of the route could be put on a par with that of 277X.

76. Mr WONG Wang-to was disappointed that the KMB did not

extend the evening operating hours of route No. 277E. He hoped the

frequency and service hours of the route could be put on a par with those of

277X.

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77. Mr CHAN Wai-tat remarked that Sheung Shui residents travelling

home late at night had to take 277X to Fanling and changed for other bus

routes at present. The KMB should extend the evening operating hours of

277E for the convenience of Sheung Shui residents.

78. Mr LARM Wai-leung opined that with more and more North

District residents went to Kowloon East to work, the TD and the KMB

should increase the frequency of 277E and extend its service hours.

79. Mr LAU Ki-fung said the frequency of 277X was higher than that

of 277E and there was a large gap between the service levels of these two

routes. He requested the KMB to increase the frequency of 277E and

extend its service hours to 12:00 midnight.

80. Mr LIU Hing-hung suggested rerouting 277E to pass through the

new bus stop at Tsui Lai Garden, and extending the service hours of the

route.

81. Mr Ingmar LEE responded that the KMB would consider Members’

suggestion of extending the evening service hours of 277E. The frequency

of the route during peak hours would be increased to every 15 to 20 minutes.

With regard to the rerouting of 277E to pass through the new bus stop at

Tsui Lai Garden, the KMB would study the proposal upon completion of the

bus stop works.

82. Mr John NG responded that the TD would discuss with the KMB in

respect of the frequency and evening service hours of 277E.

83. The Chairman asked the TD and the KMB to follow up the relevant

issues and recommended that the subject matter be referred to the Working

Group on Bus and Mini-bus Services in North District for follow up.

Item 9 - Proposal: Request Extension of the Service of Bus No. 79K to

Tsung Yuen Ha Village

(Paper No. 58/2016)

84. Mr WAN Wo-fai presented Paper No. 58/2016.

TD

KMB

Action

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85. Mr John NG responded that the TD was studying the public

transport arrangements, including the bus services to be provided, for

Liantang/Heung Yuen Wai Boundary Control Point which was in close

proximity to Tsung Yuen Ha Village, but final arrangements were yet to be

confirmed. The TD noted the proposal and would give due consideration

to it when planning for the future transport facilities at the control point.

The TD understood that Members were concerned about the demand for

transport services from workers travelling to and from the construction sites

at the control point. If the contractor of the control point works project

needed to provide non-franchised bus services for workers travelling to and

from the sites, it could apply to the TD which would make appropriate

arrangements.

86. Mr Ingmar LEE responded that the KMB would discuss the

proposal with the TD.

87. Mr WAN Wo-fai remarked that the proposal had no relation to the

transport facilities at Liantang/Heung Yuen Wai Boundary Control Point.

As buses could turn around at the roundabout at Tsung Yuen Ha Village, the

KMB should implement the suggestion concerned.

88. Mr MAN Sun-choi said that the road conditions near Tsung Yuen

Ha Village were suitable for bus operation. The TD and the KMB needed

not wait until the implementation of the study in respect of the transport

facilities at Liantang/Heung Yuen Wai Boundary Control Point in

considering the proposal.

89. Mr SEE Chiu-keung responded that the KMB had undertaken trial

runs at Tsung Yuen Ha Village and found that the chassis of the bus might

touch the road surface if it was laden.

90. Mr John NG responded that the TD noted Members’ views and

would give due consideration to them when planning for the transport

facilities at Liantang/Heung Yuen Wai Boundary Control Point.

91. Mr WAN Wo-fai urged the TD and the KMB to implement the

proposal as soon as possible.


issues and conduct a site visit and a trial run of the route with Mr WAN

Wo-fai and Mr MAN Sun-choi. He recommended that the discussion on

TD

KMB

Action

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the subject matter be continued at the next meeting.

Item 10 - Proposal: Request Bus No. 70K Passing through Wo Hing

Road

(Paper No. 59/2016)

93. Mr Tony TANG presented Paper No. 59/2016.

94. Mr SEE Chiu-keung responded that the KMB understood that there

were many elderly people living in the area concerned. However,

consensus had to be reached among stakeholders of bus No. 70K before

implementing the proposal.

95. Mr John NG responded that the TD would study the impact of the

proposal on the frequency of 70K.

96. Mr LAU Ki-fung asked the KMB about the increase in journey time

of 70K with the implementation of the proposal and the possible impact on

the frequency of the route.

97. Mr Tony TANG said that there was currently no bus service at Wo

Hing Road. The KMB should extend the service of 70K to the area

concerned.

98. Mr CHAN Yuk-ming objected to the proposal, worrying that the

already low frequency of 70K would be further affected.

99. Mr SEE Chiu-keung responded that the proposal would increase the

journey time of 70K by about two minutes. The KMB would further study

the proposal.




TD

KMB

Action

20

Item 11 - Proposal: Request Installation of Bus Stop Announcement

Systems at Bus Stops in North District As Soon As Possible

(Paper No. 60/2016)


102. Mr SEE Chiu-keung responded that the KMB had to tie in with the

Government’s plan of installing the Estimated Bus Arrival Time System and

facilities such as seats at bus stops. The KMB had been prioritising bus

stops for installation of such facilities. Members were welcome to express

their views to the KMB.

103. The Chairman asked the KMB to follow up the relevant issues and

recommended that the discussion on the subject matter should come to an

end and not be carried over to the next meeting.

Item 12 - Proposal: Request Provision of Multi-storey Carpark beside

Fung Ying Seen Koon

(Paper No. 61/2016)

104. Dr Raymond HO presented Paper No. 61/2016.

105. Ms TSE Wai responded that the Government considered that

providing public parking spaces in development projects could make more

effective use of land than building multi-storey carparks. The TD would,

according to the relevant principles, consider requiring provision of public

parking spaces in the development projects of North District.

106. Noting that there was a long-standing shortage of parking spaces in

North District, Mr Kent TSANG remarked that the TD should respond to

the demands of the residents positively instead of only requiring provision

of public parking spaces in development projects.

107. Mr YIU Ming pointed out that there was a long-standing shortage

of parking spaces in Fanling South, and the rents of the parking spaces were

high. The Government’s policy of providing public parking spaces in

development projects had become outdated. He suggested that the

KMB

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21

government departments concerned should consider developing

underground carparks and that the Committee should write to the Town

Planning Board to propose revising the outline zoning plan of North District

by adding some underground carpark projects.

108. Mr CHAN Wai-tat said that many residents had complained about

the shortage of parking spaces in North District which led to rampant illegal

parking. The TD should make good use of the land mentioned in the

proposal.

109. Mr George PANG remarked that the land mentioned in the

proposal was suitable for providing a multi-storey carpark so that picnickers

going to Wu Tip Shan and residents living nearby could park conveniently.

He requested the TD to address the problem of inadequate parking spaces in

North District.

110. Mr LAU Ki-fung stated that the problem of illegal parking was

serious in the area close to Tin Ping Estate. The TD should increase the

number of parking spaces in North District to solve the problem.

111. Mr CHEUNG Ka-fung suggested the government departments

concerned make good use of the idle sites in North District and construct

underground carparks at the sites. Spaces above the ground level of the

sites could be reserved for future development projects.

112. Dr Raymond HO urged the TD to implement the proposal.

113. The Chairman asked the TD to follow up the relevant issues and

recommended that the discussion on the subject matter be continued at the

next meeting.

Item 13 - Proposal: Provision of Motorcycle Parking Spaces in North

District is Seriously Inadequate and Request Provision of

Additional Motorcycle Parking Spaces in the District

(Paper No. 62/2016)

114. Mr LARM Wai-leung presented Paper No. 62/2016.

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115. Ms TSE Wai responded that in order to make optimal use of road

space and enhance road safety, the TD preferred providing motorcycle

parking spaces within properties. However, the TD would identify suitable

sites for providing motorcycle parking spaces as far as possible, on the

condition that the traffic would not be affected and consent had been given

by local people. Given the high utilisation rate of the lay-by at Exit C of

MTR Fanling Station, the TD considered that it would affect the traffic of

Fanling Station Road if part of the layby was used for providing motorcycle

parking spaces. Therefore, the TD had reservation about the proposal.

Yet, they might consider the suggestion regarding the lay-by outside Belair

Monte.

116. Mr LAU Ki-fung pointed out that the lay-by outside Belair Monte

was often occupied by vehicles. He did not support the provision of

motorcycle parking spaces at the site for fear that it might affect the traffic.

117. Mr LARM Wai-leung asked whether the TD agreed that there was

a need for more motorcycle parking spaces in North District. He opined

that the identification of locations for parking spaces was not the most

important matter.

118. Mr George PANG stated that he had suggested provision of

motorcycle parking spaces at the section of San Wan Road outside Fanling

Centre but the suggestion was opposed by the management office of Fanling

Centre during public consultation. He asked the TD under what

circumstances they would shelve their plan in the light of the objections

received.

119. Ms TSE Wai responded that the TD would consider the opinions of

local residents when conducting public consultation. Given that residents

of Fanling Centre objected to the proposal on the grounds that provision of

motorcycle parking spaces at the site would cause noise and environmental

problems, the TD had shelved the plan.

120. Mr George PANG remarked that the motorcycles currently parked

illegally outside Fanling Centre would also cause noise and environmental

problems.

121. Ms TSE Wai responded that the TD had to take into account the

wishes of local residents when proposing their plan.

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23

122. The Chairman said that Members were supportive of the provision

of more motorcycle parking spaces in North District. The TD should go

ahead with the study and the public consultation.

123. Mr LARM Wai-leung asked the TD whether they agreed to provide

more motorcycle parking spaces in North District.

124. Ms TSE Wai responded that the TD would increase the number of

motorcycle parking spaces as far as possible after canvassing local opinion.

However, consideration had to be given to the impact on the road traffic of

the area.




Item 14 - Proposal: Request Construction of Underground Bicycle

Parking Spaces to Solve the Illegal Parking Problem of

Bicycles

(Paper No. 63/2016)

126. Mr CHAN Yuk-ming presented Paper No. 63/2016.

127. Ms Teresa MA responded that the Civil Engineering and

Development Department (“CEDD”) was conducting a study on a pilot

scheme of provision of underground bicycle parking system which aimed to

look into the technology, cost effectiveness and operational feasibility of the

system. If the result of the study was positive, the CEDD would identify

suitable locations for implementation of the pilot scheme. The locations

would be close to public transport interchanges.

128. Mr YIU Ming remarked that given the limited land available, the

Government should actively consider developing underground space,

including the construction of underground parking spaces for vehicles,

motorcycles and bicycles.

129. Mr LAU Ki-fung hoped that the CEDD could implement the pilot

scheme of provision of underground bicycle parking system in North

TD

CEDD

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District and identify suitable locations in the district.

130. The Chairman asked the CEDD to follow up the relevant issues to

offer long-term solutions to the problems of illegal parking of vehicles and

bicycles in North District. He recommended that the discussion on the

subject matter should come to an end and not be carried over to the next

meeting.

Item 15 - Proposal: Request Designating the North Bound Lane at the

Junction of Choi Yuen Estate to the Road Section at the

Exit of Choi Po Court a Prohibited Zone for Whole Day

(Paper No. 64/2016)

131. Mr SO Sai-chi presented Paper No. 64/2016.

132. Mr YUEN Wai-cheung responded that the road section from the

junction at Choi Yuen Estate to the north bound lane of Choi Yuen Road

near Choi Po Court had been designated as a no stopping restriction zone

from 7 a.m. to 12 a.m. to prohibit vehicles from picking up/setting down

passengers or loading/unloading goods during the restricted hours.

According to the laws of Hong Kong, vehicles were also prohibited from

parking at the road section concerned. Therefore, the TD opined that there

was no need to have the area designated as a prohibited zone. With regard

to the problem of illegal parking, the TD would work with the Hong Kong

Police Force (“HKPF”) and request the HKPF to strengthen its enforcement

actions.

133. Mr SO Sai-chi asked the HKPF about the enforcement situation at

the road section concerned.

134. Mr Kent TSANG said that congestion occurred before 7 a.m. when

loading/unloading activities took place at the road section concerned.

Therefore, the existing no stopping restriction zone could not tackle the

problem effectively.

135. Mr CHEUNG Ka-fung suggested installing a fish-eye mirror at

Choi Yuen Road near the junction at Choi Yuen Estate to facilitate drivers

so that their sight-line would not be obstructed by vehicles parking at the

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roadside.

136. Mr TSUI Yick-fook responded that the HKPF had attached great

importance to the alleviation of illegal parking problems in Sheung Shui.

In May and June this year, a total of 714 summons were issued to the

vehicles parked illegally at the section of Choi Yuen Road outside Choi

Yuen Estate. The HKPF had been vigorously combating illegal parking in

various districts, and would step up enforcement against illegal parking and

loading/unloading activities this July.

137. Mr YUEN Wai-cheung responded that the TD would consider

Members’ views on designating a prohibited zone. However, he opined

that it was not suitable to install a fish-eye mirror at the relevant location.

138. The Chairman asked the TD and Mr SO Sai-chi to conduct a site

visit and explore improvement measures. He suggested the discussion on

the subject matter should come to an end and not be carried over to the next

meeting.

(Mr SO Sai-chi left the meeting at this juncture.)

Item 16 - Proposal: Request Provision of Yellow Box Marking at

Luen Hing Street near Mount One

(Paper No. 65/2016)

139. Mr TSANG Hing-lung presented Paper No. 65/2016.

140. Ms TSE Wai responded that according to the road design standards,

yellow box markings would only be provided on crossroads. Therefore it

was not suitable to provide a yellow box marking at the location mentioned

in the proposal. At present, a “No Stopping” sign had been installed

outside Mount One and the road section concerned had been designated as a

restricted zone in which parking was prohibited. The TD would strengthen

its cooperation with the HKPF to combat illegal parking.

141. Mr TSANG Hing-lung pointed out that the location concerned was

the only exit for Mount One and vehicles parked illegally therein had caused

serious obstruction to the residents. The TD should try their best to solve

TD

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26

the problem.

142. Ms TSE Wai responded that yellow box markings would only be

provided on crossroads and would not be used at the exit of housing estates.

143. The Chairman asked the TD and Mr TSANG Hing-lung to conduct

a site visit together with residents of Mount One. He suggested the

discussion on the subject matter should come to an end and not be carried

over to the next meeting.

Item 17 - Proposal: Request Provision of Pedestrian Crossing

Facilities at Lok Yip Road, On Lok Tsuen

(Paper No. 66/2016)

144. Mr LARM Wai-leung presented Paper No. 66/2016.

145. Ms TSE Wai responded that as construction of a subway or a

footbridge would take up a large piece of land and involve huge

construction and maintenance costs, the TD would consider such option

only when there was no other feasible option. Moreover, careful

consideration had to be given to factors like pedestrian flow, engineering

feasibility and structure of the works for subway or footbridge construction.

The TD had recently received a planning submission in which the applicant

proposed the provision of a pedestrian crossing at Lok Yip Road, Fanling as

an enhancement to the existing pedestrian crossing facilities. The TD

would continue to follow up the application.




TD

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Item 18 - Proposal: Request Widening of the Pedestrian Crossing at

San Wan Road (near Moon Wah Building)

(Paper No. 67/2016)


148. Mr YUEN Wai-cheung responded that TD officers had been

dispatched to review the design of the pedestrian crossing concerned and the

actual situation and to check the records on the pedestrian flows during the

morning and afternoon peak hours. It was considered that the current

design could meet the needs.

149. Mr LAU Ki-fung remarked that the pedestrian crossing concerned

was very crowded. The TD should study improvement measures.




Item 19 - Proposal: Request Relocation of the Pedestrian Crossing at

Fung Nam Road

(Paper No. 68/2016)

151. Mr LIU Hing-hung presented Paper No. 68/2016.

152. Mr YUEN Wai-cheung responded that TD officers had been

dispatched to review the design of the pedestrian crossing concerned and the

actual situation. It was considered that the design was up to standard and

provided sufficient sight distance for pedestrians to see approaching

vehicles. Given that a pedestrian crossing should be located away from the

entrance of housing blocks, it was difficult to implement the proposal.

153 Mr LIU Hing-hung stated that the proposal represented the demand

of many residents of Tsui Lai Garden. Moreover, he expressed doubt

about the claim that a pedestrian crossing should be located away from the

entrance of housing blocks.

154. Mr YUEN Wai-cheung responded that the TD would further study

TD

Secretariat

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the proposal.

155. The Chairman asked the Secretariat to arrange a site visit for TD’s

representatives and Members to study the feasibility of relocating the

pedestrian crossing concerned. He suggested the discussion on the subject

matter should come to an end and not be carried over to the next meeting.

(Post-meeting note: A site visit to the pedestrian crossing concerned was

arranged by the Secretariat for TD’s representatives and Members on 16

August 2016.)

Item 20 - Proposal: Request Installation of Closed Circuit Television

at the Cross Road at Pak Wo Road near Yan Shing Court

for Monitoring

(Paper No. 69/2016)


157. Ms TSE Wai responded that due to limited resources, the Traffic

Control Division of the TD would take into account various factors when

considering installation of red light cameras, such as the number of traffic

accidents involving drivers disobeying traffic signals, the situation of

vehicles jumping red lights, and whether the road junction was suitable for

installing a red light camera. Currently, the TD had no plan to install a red

light camera at the junction concerned but would monitor the traffic

condition of the location with the HKPF.

158. Mr YIU Ming said that the junction concerned was close to an

expressway and traffic accidents were likely to occur during night time as

vehicles usually drove fast while pedestrians hurried home at night. The

TD should identify improvement options.

159. Ms TSE Wai responded that the TD would conduct a site visit with

Mr YIU Ming and identify improvement options.

TD

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Item 21 - Proposal: Request Review and Improvement to Transport

Facilities at Wo Muk Road

(Paper No. 70/2016)

161. Mr TSANG Hing-lung presented Paper No. 70/2016.

162. Mr TSUI Yick-fook responded by mentioning that a traffic accident

happened at Wo Muk Road near Wing Fok Centre on 29 May 2016, leading

to the death of an old man. The driver was arrested for dangerous driving

causing death and the investigation of the case was still underway. The

HKPF would take regular enforcement action in North District against

pedestrians disobeying traffic signals, and issue summons to those who

parked illegally at Wo Muk Road. Furthermore, the HKPF and the TD

would consider the proposal in the next round of red light camera

installation programme with reference to the situation of the location.

163. Ms TSE Wai responded that the image produced by a fish-eye

mirror would make it difficult for drivers and pedestrians to judge distances.

Given that fish-eye mirrors were not standard road facilities, the TD did not

support the installation of a fish-eye mirror at the road section concerned.

164. Mr LAU Ki-fung mentioned that the problems of speeding and

illegal parking were serious at the road section. The HKPF should pay

more attention to the problems and strengthen enforcement actions.

165. Mr TSANG Hing-lung pointed out that the problems of pedestrians

and drivers disobeying traffic signals were prevalent at the road section.

The TD and the HKPF should identify improvement measures.

166. Ms TSE Wai responded that the TD would further study the traffic

signs at the road section concerned.

167. The Chairman asked the TD and the HKPF to consider Members’

views and suggested the discussion on the subject matter should come to an TD

HKPF

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Item 22 - Proposal: Request Improvement to Congestion between Tai

Tau Leng Roundabout and Fan Kam Road

(Paper No. 71/2016)

168. Mr Kent TSANG presented Paper No. 71/2016.

169. With regard to Members’ previous suggestion on providing an

additional lane at Tai Tau Leng Roundabout, Mr YUEN Wai-cheung

responded that the TD had no plan to provide an additional Yuen

Long-bound lane from Fan Kam Road to Fanling Highway for the time

being as the proposed works would affect the existing Fanling workshop

areas of the Water Supplies Department in the vicinity. However, the TD

would offer advice on traffic issues when the LandsD and the Planning

Department were considering the usage of the site. In view of the fact that

only a small number of vehicles travelling from Fan Kam Road to Fanling

Highway via Tai Tau Leng Roundabout, the TD opined that the roundabout

could cope with the traffic flow. The TD would continue to monitor the

situation.

170. Mr CHEUNG Ka-fung suggested the TD consider providing

another roundabout in Fanling so that vehicles could gain access to Fanling

Highway to travel to Yuen Long and the burden on the existing roundabouts

in North District could be lessened.

171. Mr Kent TSANG said that traffic queues could be seen at Tai Tau

Leng Roundabout even during non-peak hours and this reflected the

severity of the congestion problem. The TD should identify short-term

improvement measures.

172. Mr LARM Wai-leung stated that the congestion problem at Tai Tau

Leng Roundabout had become more and more serious, and might cause

obstruction to ambulances going to the North District Hospital. The TD

should consider improvement options.

173. The Chairman asked the TD to conduct a site visit and consider

improvement options. He suggested the discussion on the proposal be TD

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(Mr Tony TANG left the meeting at this juncture.)

Item 23 - Proposal: Request Increasing the Seating Capacity of

Minibuses

(Paper No. 72/2016)

Item 24 - Proposal: Request Increasing the Seating Capacity of Green

Minibuses

(Paper No. 73/2016)

174. The Chairman suggested discussing items 23 and 24 as a combined

item as the two proposals were both related to the seating capacity of

minibuses.

175. Mr Simon HAU presented Paper No. 72/2016.


177. Mr John NG responded that the Government had been conducting

the Public Transport Strategy Study (“PTSS”) to examine the positioning

and roles of public transport services other than railway, which covered a

study on the seating capacity of minibuses. According to the outcome of

the study, provision of no more than three additional seats could effectively

improve the situation of inadequate minibus services during peak hours.

The exact number of seats to be added was to be further analysed by the

consultant and be determined with reference to the financial position of

minibus operators and the impact on other public transport services and road

users. During the process of the study, the Government would listen to the

views of different parties. It was expected that the details of the initiative

could be finalised by the end of this year. He would relay the proposals to

the relevant section of the TD.

178. Mr CHAN Wai-tat stated that both the public and Members from

different political parties hoped that the number of seats of minibuses could

be increased to 20. The Government should follow mainstream opinion.

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179. The Chairman concluded by saying that he had met with major

minibus operators who said that with an increase in the seating capacity of

minibuses, the fare could be frozen for two years, the wages of minibus

drivers could be increased, and environmental-friendly models of minibuses

could be procured to replace the old ones. He hoped Mr John NG could

convey Members’ views (i.e. the seating capacity of minibuses be increased

to 20) to the relevant section of the TD. He suggested the discussion on

the subject matter should come to an end and not be carried over to the next

meeting.

(Mr TSANG Hing-lung, Mr WAN Wo-fai and Mr WU King-pang left the

meeting at this juncture.)

Item 25 - Matters Arising

(a) Proposal: Request Provision of Cover for the Bus Stop at Tai Tong Wu

Village, Sha Tau Kok Road

(Paragraphs 91 - 101 of Minutes of the 3rd Meeting)

180. Mr John NG reported that the TD had liaised with the Geotechnical

Engineering Office (“GEO”) under the CEDD in this respect and the GEO

responded that they did not recommend providing a bus shelter at the site as

the bus stop was located next to a slope. The TD and the KMB were

studying whether space for a shelter was available near the bus stop in

response to the demands of residents.

181. Mr George PANG enquired about the reasons why the GEO did not

recommend providing a bus shelter next to a slope.

182. Mr John NG responded that the TD had to obtain more information

from the GEO to answer the enquiry of Mr George PANG.

183. The Chairman asked the Secretariat to arrange a site visit for

representatives of the TD and the GEO and Members to study the issue

concerned. He suggested the discussion on the subject matter should come

to an end and not be carried over to the next meeting.

(Post-meeting note: A site visit to the bus stop concerned was arranged by

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the Secretariat for representatives of the TD and the GEO and Members on

17 August 2016.)

(b) Following Up on Provision of Interchange Concession for 270


184. Mr Ingmar LEE reported that for rational use of resources, the

KMB had no plan to offer more interchange concessions for bus route No.

270 for the time being.

185. Mr LAU Ki-fung stated that the proposal represented the demand

of many residents and he would continue to fight for it.

186. Mr WONG Wang-to remarked that the proposal involved many

residents of Tin Ping Estate and Tsui Lai Garden and the KMB should

reconsider it.

187. Mr CHAN Chi-wai pointed out that interchange concessions could

facilitate local residents travelling to urban areas for work, creating a

win-win situation for the KMB and residents.




(c) Proposal: Request Increasing the Frequency of T277 and Provision of

Return Trips Departing from Kowloon Bay Business Area


189. Mr Ingmar LEE reported that the KMB had submitted a plan to the

TD to raise the service standard of bus route No. T277.

190. Mr John NG reported that the TD had been consulting the district

councils concerned about the provision of return trips of T277. So far,

views had been received from Kwun Tong District Council (“KTDC”) on

the location of the terminus and further communication was needed with the

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KMB

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KTDC.

191. Mr LARM Wai-leung requested that the return trips of T277 should

travel via Ching Ho Estate bus terminus.


issues and recommended that the discussion on the subject matter should

come to an end and not be carried over to the next meeting.

(d) Proposal: Request Provision of “E” Route Bus Services From North

District to Tung Chung, Lantau Island


193. Mr LAW Yiu-wah reported that the LWB had upgraded bus route

No. A43P to provide whole-day service since June this year. The bus trips

travelling between North District and North Lantau had increased by over

40% on the whole and A43P had provided a more direct bus service to some

residents. The LWB was monitoring the passenger flow and would

consider making adjustment according to the situation.

194. Mr Kent TSANG stated that what North District residents wanted

was an “E” route bus service which could not be replaced by the whole-day

service of A43P.

195. Mr LAU Ki-fung pointed out that A43P did not cover the service

scope of the “E” route and its fare was higher. What North District

residents needed was the “E” route bus service, but not A43P.

196. Mr George PANG requested a new bus stop for A43P at Fanling

Swimming Pool for the convenience of residents living in the vicinity of

Fanling Wai.

197. Dr Raymond HO suggested cancelling the bus stop at Tai Lam

Tunnel for A43P.

198. Mr CHEUNG Ka-fung stated that many residents who worked at

the airport requested return fare concession and more bus trips for A43.

TD

KMB

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199. The Chairman said that “A” route buses and “E” route buses

provided different services, and the LWB should provide “E” route bus

services in North District.

200. Mr WOO Kin-keung responded that the LWB would review and

consider adjusting resource allocation.

201. The Chairman asked the TD and the LWB to follow up the relevant

issues and recommended that the discussion on the subject matter be


(e) Proposal: Request Provision of Express Bus Route Linking Shek Wu Hui

and Luen Wo Hui


202. Mr Ingmar LEE reported that the KMB was offering bus service

between Shek Wu Hui and Luen Wo Hui via bus routes Nos. 70K, 78K and

79K. The KMB would monitor the passenger demand for the bus service

and consider introducing express bus service when necessary.

203. Mr LAU Ki-fung suggested the KMB should introduce express bus

service between Shek Wu Hui and Luen Wo Hui on a trial basis to assess

the passenger demand.

204. Mr WONG Wang-to remarked that 78K and 79K failed to provide

fast services for residents travelling between Shek Wu Hui and Luen Wo

Hui. The KMB should show its sincerity and consider redeploying

resources from 70K to introduce special trips running between Shek Wu Hui

and Luen Wo Hui.


issues and recommended that the discussion on the subject matter should

come to an end and not be carried over to the next meeting.

TD

LWB

TD

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(f) Following Up on the Construction of Flyover at Kai Leng Roundabout


206. Ms Teresa MA reported that since the issue concerned was rather

complicated, the CEDD needed more time to study the issue and would

report to the Committee as soon as possible.

207. Mr George PANG was dissatisfied that CEDD had made no

progress where several months had been allowed by the Committee for the

department to study on the matter.

208. Mr CHEUNG Ka-fung suggested a site visit be made by the CEDD

and Members to gain a better understanding of what residents needed and

thought. Besides, he enquired the TD about the situation of providing a

single white line marking at Kai Leng Roundabout.

209. Ms Teresa MA responded that she would relay Members’ views to

the relevant section of the CEDD and hoped that she could make a report in

this regard at the next meeting.

210. Ms TSE Wai responded that the works of providing a single white

line marking at Kai Leng Roundabout had completed.

211. Mr George PANG requested the CEDD to provide a timetable for

the study of the issue concerned.

212. Ms Teresa MA responded that she would relay Members’ views to

the relevant section of the CEDD.

213. The Chairman asked the CEDD to follow up the relevant issues and

recommended that the discussion on the subject matter be continued at the

next meeting.

CEDD

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Item 26 - Application for Funds for Community Involvement Projects

of Traffic and Transport Committee

(Paper No. 74/2016)

214. The Chairman said that the Working Group on North District

Traffic Survey had submitted a funding application of $150,000 for

conducting the “Survey on the Patronage of Bus Routes in North District”.

He asked Members to consider approving the application.

215. Mr CHAN Yuk-ming considered that bus companies should have

collected bus patronage data by themselves. If the Committee conducted

the survey on bus patronage with public money without actually enhancing

the services of bus companies, he worried that there would be a waste of

resources.

216. The Chairman explained that the survey could provide Members

with supplementary information in addition to the data from bus companies

which could help Members evaluate the level of services of bus companies

objectively.

217. Mr LAU Ki-fung asked whether the KMB could provide bus

patronage data so that the Committee could conduct the survey without

using public resources.

218. Mr YIU Ming opined that Members should respect the decision

made by the Working Group on North District Traffic Survey.

219. Mr Kent TSANG stated that the Working Group on North District

Traffic Survey had reached a consensus at the last meeting. They hoped

that bus patronage data could be obtained through the survey to facilitate the

discussions on bus services in North District among Members, the TD and

bus companies.

220. Mr WONG Wang-to said that surveys had been conducted by the

last two terms of the Working Group on North District Traffic Survey on

different transport services and the findings were used by Members to press

for improvements of transport services. The survey mentioned above

could provide Members with bus patronage data so that they could press for

improvements to bus services.

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221. Mr Warwick WAN remarked that the mode of operation of the

Working Group on North District Traffic Survey had worked well and the

survey concerned was practicable.

(Mr YIU Ming left the meeting at this juncture.)

222. Dr Raymond HO remarked that the survey concerned could provide

Members with supplementary information in addition to the data from bus

companies and it was worth conducting.

223. Mr CHEUNG Ka-fung pointed out that bus companies had been

reluctant to provide patronage data. The survey concerned could provide

Members with objective information.

224. Mr CHAN Yuk-ming said he did not object to the undertaking of

the survey. He just wanted to voice his opinion at the meeting. He urged

bus companies to reconsider whether they should disclose patronage data.

225. The Committee approved the funding application.

Item 27 - Reports of Working Groups under Traffic and Transport

Committee

(a) Working Group on North District Traffic Survey

226. Mr Kent TSANG reported that at the meeting on 7 June 2016, the

Working Group on North District Traffic Survey resolved to conduct a bus

patronage survey to study whether the services of long-haul bus routes in

North District during afternoon peak hours on weekdays could meet

passenger needs. The results of the survey would be provided to

government departments concerned and bus companies for their reference

and consideration, and bus companies would be urged to adjust service

frequency according to passenger needs and the existing carrying capacity

to enhance the bus services in North District.

227. Mr Kent TSANG continued that a consultant would be engaged by

the Working Group to investigate the patronage of long-haul bus routes in

North District during afternoon peak hours on weekdays and study whether

Action

39

the existing services could meet passenger needs. Recommendations for

improvement would be made based on the findings of the survey and a

survey report would be produced. The Working Group would finalise the

scope of the survey according to the price quoted by the consultant and the

amount of funding allocated to the Working Group this year (i.e. $150,000).

Subject to funding approval by the Committee and the NDC, the Working

Group would invite quotations and select a consultant in August and

September. The survey was expected to take one to two months to

complete. The consultant would report the survey results at the Committee

meeting to be held in January 2017.

(b) Working Group on Improvement of MTR Services and Facilities in

North District

228. Mr Warwick WAN reported that the Working Group on

Improvement of MTR Services and Facilities in North District held a

meeting on 7 June 2016 to hear the report by the MTRCL on the

improvement works of MTR Sheung Shui and Fanling Stations. The

Working Group also put forward various recommendations to the TD and

the MTRCL regarding improvements to MTR services and station facilities

in North District. They included early provision of platform screen doors,

provision of additional station exits and widening of passageways, provision

of barrier-free facilities at station exits, increase in the number of platform

staff, and improvements to the queuing arrangement.

(c) Working Group on Bus and Mini-bus Services in North District

229. Mr Kent TSANG reported that at the meeting on 23 June 2016, the

Working Group on Bus and Mini-bus Services in North District discussed a

number of issues with the TD and bus companies, including the proposals

concerning provision of whole-day service of bus No. 270B, provision of

transport services between North District and Ma On Shan, and

improvements to transport services in North District in the small hours.

Moreover, members of the Working Group also put forward views and

suggestions regarding the services of other bus and minibus routes and

reflected the needs of North District residents to the TD and bus companies.

Action

40

Item 28 - Any Other Business

(a) Traffic Light Problem at the Junction of Wah Ming Road and Fai Ming

Road

230. Mr CHAN Wai-tat pointed out that the traffic lights at the junction

of Wah Ming Road and Fai Ming Road often became defective in heavy

rain. He asked the government departments concerned to take follow-up

action and make improvements.

231. The Chairman asked the TD and the HyD to follow up the issue.

(b) Problem of Roadside Weeds at San Wan Road and Kai Leng

Roundabout

232. Mr CHEUNG Ka-fung mentioned that excessive roadside weeds

were growing at San Wan Road and Kai Leng Roundabout due to high

rainfall in recent days. He asked the HyD to take improvement measures

accordingly.

233. Mr WONG Tiu-kai responded that the HyD would follow up the

issue.

(c) Provision of Double Yellow Lines Outside the Exit of Ching Ho Estate

Bus Terminus

234. Mr LARM Wai-leung suggested the provision of double yellow

lines outside the exit of Ching Ho Estate Bus Terminus by the TD to prevent

vehicles from parking there and causing obstruction to drivers’ views.

235. The Chairman asked the TD to follow up the issue.

HyD

TD

HyD

TD

Action

41

(d) Provision of Parking Facilities at Kwu Tung Market Shopping Centre in

Sheung Shui

236. Mr Simon HAU urged for prompt follow-up action and reply from

the TD regarding the request for provision of parking facilities at Kwu Tung

Market Shopping Centre in Sheung Shui.

237. The Chairman asked the TD to follow up the issue.

(e) Transport Facilities near Fung Kai

238. Mr LIU Hing-hung pointed out that double yellow lines had been

marked at the junction of Jockey Club Road and Sheung Shui Wai by the

HyD but a sign indicating the prohibited zone was yet to be provided. He

also requested the provision of railings along the road outside Fung Kai

No. 1 Primary School to separate pedestrians from vehicles.

239. The Chairman asked the TD and the HyD to follow up the issue.

(f) Overgrown Weeds on the Roads near Ka Fuk Estate

240. Mr Warwick WAN mentioned that excessive weeds were growing

on the roads near Ka Fuk Estate. The HyD should follow up the issue and

take improvement measures.

241. The Chairman asked the HyD to follow up the issue.

(g) Illegal Parking Problem at Tin Ping Road

242. Mr LAU Ki-fung said that many vehicles parked illegally at Tin

Ping Road, causing obstruction to buses and school buses. The HKPF

should strengthen its enforcement.

243. Mr TSUI Yick-fook responded that the HKPF would follow up the

TD

TD

HyD

HyD

HKPF

Action

42

issue.

(h) Illegal Parking Problem at Yu Tai Road

244. Dr Raymond HO mentioned that trucks parked illegally at Yu Tai

Road had caused security problems as burglars would climb onto the roof of

the trucks and gain entry to the property nearby by climbing over the fence

of the property.

245. The Chairman asked the HKPF to follow up the issue.

Item 29 - Date of Next Meeting

246. The Chairman announced that the next meeting would be held at

2:30 p.m. on 12 September 2016 (Monday) in the NDC Conference Room.

247. The meeting was adjourned at 6:48 p.m.

North District Council Secretariat

September 2016

HKPF

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