Hong Kong scraps Peak lighting project after public backlash
HKFP · 2 SOURCESabout 4 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has scrapped a controversial lighting project at The Peak following public backlash over concerns that it would spoil the natural environment and serene atmosphere of one of Hong Kong's most iconic hiking trails. The project, which involved installing decorative orbs, sculptures, and hundreds of spotlights along the Peak Circle Walk, was meant to be part of a new series of immersive light shows replacing A Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after more than two decades. Tourism officials submitted a paper to the Central and Western District Council confirming the decision, stating that all installations would be dismantled and affected areas restored.
Key Points
- The HKTB confirmed in a district council paper that the lighting project along Peak Circle Walk has been abandoned after residents and trail users complained it would ruin the natural environment
- The installations along Lugard Road and Harlech Road were part of a HK$200 million plan to create a new light and shadow parade to replace the Victoria Harbour show that began in 2004
- The project involved removing vegetation and mounting hundreds of spotlights and electric cables on trees, sparking criticism that the artificial lighting was an eyesore
- Tourism officials said they considered revising the project by reducing the number of lights, but ultimately decided to scrap it entirely after consultations with district councillors and lawmakers
- An SCMP editorial praised the reversal as a sensible decision that demonstrates shows lacking stakeholder support must not go on, offering a lesson on implementing the tourism strategy
Why It Matters
The decision highlights the challenges Hong Kong faces in balancing tourism promotion with environmental preservation as it seeks to develop new attractions amid growing regional competition. The reversal also signals that authorities must carefully consider public sentiment when implementing the "tourism is everywhere" strategy, even as the government pushes forward with result-oriented policies.
The decision highlights the challenges Hong Kong faces in balancing tourism promotion with environmental preservation as it seeks to develop new attractions amid growing regional competition. The reversal also signals that authorities must carefully consider public sentiment when implementing the "tourism is everywhere" strategy, even as the government pushes forward with result-oriented policies.