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Urban decay has long been a perennial challenge faced by Hong Kong. The pace of redevelopment has failed to keep up with the increasing number of ageing buildings, and existing planning and institutional framework have further hindered development potentials in urban areas, exacerbating the problem. Quality public realms are also lacking and compromised by increasingly incompatible uses.

In response to shifting urban dynamics, AECOM has collaborated closely with the government to address emerging economic and social needs, ultimately shaping more liveable and sustainable environments. 

Pioneering a shift in urban renewal strategy – holistic study of Yau Ma Tei and Mong Kok areas

In 2017, the Urban Renewal Authority commissioned AECOM to conduct a comprehensive urban renewal study on Yau Ma Tei and Mong Kok, two of Hong Kong’s most densely populated old districts covering 212 hectares. Departing from the traditional project-centric methods, AECOM piloted an innovative holistic and district-based approach in this study, catalysing a paradigm shift in Hong Kong’s urban renewal strategy. This not only facilitated a thorough assessment of critical issues but also established the pragmatic modus operandi for renewal planning in other old districts in Hong Kong.
 

Completed in 2021, the Study received a Silver Award at the Singapore Institute of Planners Planning Awards 2023, Joint Award by the Singapore Institute of Planners (SIP) and the Hong Kong Institute of Planners (HKIP) in recognition of its Excellence in Planning. The first of a few successive urban renewal projects, as envisaged under the Study, commenced in 2024, aimed at revitalising the Mong Kok East commercial area with particular focus on weaving an urban green network. 

Learn more about the study: https://aecom.com/projects/driving-urban-renewal-to-shape-resilient-urban-environments-in-hong-kong/

Urban design study for the Wan Chai North and North Point harbourfront areas 

Land use along the Victoria Harbourfront has been evolving to adapt to the changing dynamics of the harbour and its surroundings. As Wan Chai becomes an exhibition and commercial hub, opportunities to enhance connectivity within Hong Kong Island and offer leisure and recreational activities present themselves.

In 2019, AECOM completed a study for the Planning Department to formulate a sustainable masterplan, along with comprehensive planning and design briefs to guide future developments and harbourfront enhancements in Wan Chai North and North Point harbourfront as vibrant, sustainable and accessible spots for public enjoyment.
 

This urban design study examined how to redefine the harbourfront areas to leverage opportunities from additional offices and commercial developments in Wan Chai and Admiralty, to recreational area and waterfront park in North Point and Tin Hau. It included strategies on bringing people closer to the water, and strengthening the harmonious relationship between water bodies and surrounding environments.  

Subsequent implementations have since taken place to transform the Wan Chai North and North Point promenades into popular leisure spaces, such as the Wan Chai Pier harbourfront area and Fortress Hill East Coast Park, which are fully open for public use. 

Learn more about the study: https://aecom.com/projects/redefining-hong-kongs-harbourfront-through-the-design-of-five-distinct-precincts/ 

Shaping a more resilient urban environment for future generations 

Through innovative studies and holistic approaches, AECOM aims to create vibrant public spaces by revitalising Yau Ma Tei and Mong Kok and transforming the Wan Chai North and North Point harbourfront areas. The Company will continue to promote sustainable urban development, enhance regional connectivity, and facilitate community engagement for future generations.