DoJ Proposes International Legal Building in Wan Chai, Seeks Height and Plot Ratio Relaxation
HK01 · 1 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The Department of Justice (DoJ) announced plans to construct a 25-storey International Legal Services Building in Wan Chai, with an application to relax the height limit and plot ratio scheduled for the fourth quarter of this year. The building, positioned as an "international-class legal landmark," will be located between Lockhart Road and Jaffe Road on a site spanning approximately 1,825 square metres. If approved, the development aims to break ground by the end of next year following consultations with the Legislative Council.
Key Points
- The DoJ plans to apply to the Town Planning Board to raise the height restriction from 110 to 135 metres above the Principal Datum and increase the plot ratio from 12 to 15 times
- The site for the Hong Kong International Legal Services Building sits between Lockhart Road and Jaffe Road, covering approximately 1,825 square metres
- The 25-storey tower will accommodate the Hong Kong International Legal Talent Training Academy headquarters, International Mediation Institute offices, and various law-related facilities including lecture halls, multi-purpose rooms, and mediation chambers
- Users will comprise primarily local and overseas enterprise representatives and professionals, with the DoJ coordinating transport arrangements such as shuttle bus services during large events and international conferences
- Seven metered parking spaces on Lockhart Road and Jaffe Road—three and four respectively—will be relocated to suitable locations within the district, with traffic impact assessments indicating minimal disruption
Why It Matters
The proposed development signals Hong Kong's ambition to establish itself as a premier international legal and dispute resolution hub. The building's integration with the International Mediation Institute headquarters and its comprehensive facilities for training, mediation, and professional gatherings could attract legal talent and businesses from around the world, bolstering Hong Kong's competitive edge in the Asia-Pacific legal services market .
The proposed development signals Hong Kong's ambition to establish itself as a premier international legal and dispute resolution hub. The building's integration with the International Mediation Institute headquarters and its comprehensive facilities for training, mediation, and professional gatherings could attract legal talent and businesses from around the world, bolstering Hong Kong's competitive edge in the Asia-Pacific legal services market .