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2017-10-20

URA launches Info Truck to promote building rehabilitation and Smart Tender Concession Scheme

URA launches Info Truck to promote building rehabilitation and Smart Tender Concession Scheme

The Urban Renewal Authority (URA) today (Friday) launched an Info Truck which will tour around Hong Kong in the coming month with an aim to enhance owners’ awareness on building rehabilitation, while encouraging them to join the Smart Tender to improve the condition of their buildings.

To encourage owners to carry out timely repair and maintenance for their buildings, the URA has adopted a multi-pronged approach by providing various technical and financial support to buildings owners, including the Smart Tender Building Rehabilitation Facilitating Services (Smart Tender) which was introduced in May 2016. Earlier this month, the URA has launched a concession scheme for Smart Tender in response to the Government’s 2017-18 Budget initiative to earmark $300 million to allow property owners to join Smart Tender at a concessionary rate. The concessionary fees payable by the participating owners’ organisations under the concession scheme are equivalent to 5% to 50% of the original fees.

Today’s launching ceremony held at Lai Chi Kok Park was officiated by the Secretary for Development, Mr Michael Wong Wai-lun, and Chairman of the URA, Mr Victor So Hing-woh.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr So said: “The Smart Tender services address to the needs and concerns of the owners when planning building rehabilitation works by providing more information, technical support and tender e-platform. The concession scheme will encourage more owners to fulfil their responsibility to carry out proper building repair and maintenance. We will continue to work with the Government, District Council and the community to promote and facilitate building rehabilitation, with a view to improving the safety and living environment of buildings.”

Touring 30 different locations across Hong Kong starting today, the Info Truck will display a wide range of building rehabilitation information, including common building safety and hygiene problems, importance of preventive building maintenance and a list of URA’s comprehensive building rehabilitation schemes with highlight on the Smart Tender Concession Scheme. Members of the public can learn more about the proper procedure and coordination of building rehabilitation works through interactive games installed on the Info Truck. Apart from the Info Truck, the URA will also work with the Government to promote the Smart Tender Concession Scheme through TV and radio commercials, as well as newspaper advertisements.

Details of the roving schedule can be found on the website of Building Rehab Info Net (http://www.buildingrehab.org.hk). Members of the public are welcome to visit the website or call the Hotline at 3188 1188 to know more about the URA’s building rehabilitation schemes.