More time is needed to complete the construction work aimed at improving security at Civil Square, according to the government. Photo: HKEJ
Civil Square reopening pushed back to September 10
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Hong Kong’s Civil Square, a popular protest area outside the government headquarters in Admiralty, will need more time for its ongoing renovation and will not reopen until Sept. 10, Ming Pao Daily reported on Friday, citing the office of the chief secretary for administration.
The square, facing the east wing of the Central Government Offices, was originally scheduled to reopen at the end of August. The government is now saying that more time is needed as construction work aimed at improving security in the premises has been affected by weather.
The last public demonstration at the square was staged in June by groups opposing government plans to develop the Northeast New Territories.
About HK$2 million (US$258,059) has been allocated for the security enhancement project, the report said.
While no workers were seen by a Ming Pao reporter at the site, four areas were covered by canvas. An on-site security guard was quoted as saying workers were repairing speakers on the ceiling. The Legislative Council Secretariat said workers were replacing broken glass during the recess period of the council.
Legislator Cyd Ho Sau-lan said the delay in the reopening of the square would hinder plans by citizens to protest against the decision made by the National People’s Congress standing committee on the framework for the 2017 chief executive election.
Chan Kin-por, another Legco member, suggested that another area be considered for the holding of mass protests.
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