The West Island Line (WIL) project proposes a three-station extension to the existing Island Line to link the western townships of Hong Kong Island to the broader rail network. A 3km route, this line runs from Sheung Wan to Kennedy Town to serve the growing local communities, including the University of Hong Kong. Implementing the project within an historic and densely populated environment has prompted a new way of thinking for us. Our agenda is to create a community-friendly rail that respects the local transport needs while preserving the natural shoreline environment and ambience of this historical sector of Hong Kong. Our planning includes a revived community life with pedestrianisation of the area through linked walkways and outdoor escalators, shoreline public spaces and amenities, and local tourist and commercial developments. As with our previous experience in reviving local communities around our rail hubs, we anticipate increased economic activity and social benefit to the area's businesses and residential estates.
Achieving this agenda is fostered through the ongoing community's dialogue established at the early stages of the WIL planning in 2003. Information acquired from the initial community dialogues and project exhibitions conducted at the onset of the feasibility study will be integrated into the project prior to an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study, a first for any Hong Kong development project. With community involvement at this early stage, the planning and design of the WIL will better fit community needs and integrate easier with the life of the communities along the line as well as optimise cost efficiency in design. This engagement mechanism marks the first time in Hong Kong that community stakeholder interests will influence and shape a rail project development.
