Ensuring Residential Excellence: A Deep Dive into Housing Quality
Initial Concerns Prompt Comprehensive Review
The Architectural Services Department (ArchSD) has established an independent investigation unit to scrutinize construction standards at three Light Public Housing (LPH) sites. These locations include Lok On Pai in Siu Lam, Yan Po Road in Tuen Mun, and Sheung On Street in Chai Wan. This action was precipitated by preliminary findings of quality lapses at the Siu Lam initiative, first brought to light in late August.
Contractor Under Scrutiny for Multiple Sites
All three public housing locations are under the management of a single contractor, Able & Chun Wo Joint Venture. Subsequent assessments have unveiled additional installation-related deficiencies that extend beyond the initial issues, prompting a broader examination of the contractor's adherence to project specifications and quality benchmarks.
Accountability and Remediation Efforts
The newly formed investigative body is mandated to provide direct reports to the Housing Bureau and the Development Bureau. ArchSD has clarified that the identified problems stem from on-site operational practices rather than the inherent quality of the Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) methodology itself. The contractor has been directed to promptly present comprehensive remedial strategies, with an anticipated resolution period of four to five months. Authorities are simultaneously pushing for accelerated external works to maintain the original project timelines.
Government Oversight and Enforcement
The Housing Bureau has affirmed its vigilant monitoring of the ongoing situation, reiterating the critical importance of achieving project completion with stringent quality and safety standards. The government has indicated its readiness to impose penalties on responsible parties and to initiate regulatory actions as stipulated by relevant legislation, including the Buildings Ordinance, to uphold construction integrity and public confidence.