Legal framework for Northern Metropolis to be tabled at Legco on March 24

Hong Kong authorities are moving to accelerate the development of the massive Northern Metropolis project by introducing new legislation. Development Secretary Bernadette Linn announced that a "relatively flexible" legal framework will be presented to the Legislative Council's development panel on March 24. This legislative push comes just days after the government's latest budget sought HK$30 billion (US$3.8 billion) in initial capital for the project. The goal is to create a legal structure that removes bureaucratic barriers and streamlines planning and development procedures for a megaproject expected to span more than a decade across 30,000 hectares in the New Territories.

The proposed law is intentionally not exhaustive in detail, focusing instead on empowering the government to introduce necessary subsidiary legislation and exercise powers as needed. The HK$30 billion funding is earmarked for three key zones: HK$10 billion each for the Hetao Hong Kong Park, the San Tin Technopole, and the Hung Shui Kiu Industry Park. This approach signifies a strategic shift towards creating a more agile governance model for large-scale infrastructure, aiming to avoid delays that often plague long-term projects. The move underscores Hong Kong's commitment to establishing itself as a major innovation and technology hub in the region through this transformative urban development.