A controversial lighting project along a walking trail on The Peak is now in jeopardy due to growing complaints that the installations harm Hong Kong’s natural beauty. Designed as part of a series of new attractions intended to replace a retired light show, the initiative has faced criticism from both residents and visitors.
The South China Morning Post examines the issues that have arisen with this project.
1. What is the project?
The Tourism Board planned small light installations for selected points along the walking trail near Lugard Road and Harlech Road to add an attraction to The Peak.
The installations feature a soft, low-glare lighting design and were scheduled to operate from 7pm to 10pm on a 12-month trial basis, according to the board.
2. Why did it trigger controversy?
Many residents accused the board of removing trees and adding to light pollution. Critics labelled the installations an eyesore that ruined the area’s natural ambience, pointing out that the walkway was set to feature at least 276 spotlights and 52 trees bound with cables.
One social media user said: “The LED lights are so strong that they could affect local wildlife. Cables were strung along the railings, creating a risk of electrical leakage.”
Jim Chi-yung, a research chair professor of geography and environmental science at the Education University of Hong Kong, widely known as the “Tree Doctor”, said installing a lighting project in a natural setting was “incongruous” and “a mismatch”.
The board emphasised that its contractor had not felled any trees and clarified that it had followed professional advice from various authorities and registered arborists.
“All key aspects of the project are subject to endorsement by registered arborists, including the selection of trees, the method of hanging the light fittings, tree protection measures, load-bearing arrangements and installation methods,” it said.
“Arborists are also required to inspect the light fittings after installation and monitor them regularly to safeguard the health of the trees.”
3. How did the project originate?
Led by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the project was launched as one of several initiatives intended to replace Hong Kong’s “A Symphony of Lights” display.
The nightly synchronised light, laser and music show has lit up Victoria Harbour since 2004.
The show was named the world’s “largest permanent light and sound show” by Guinness World Records in 2005, with lights spanning more than 40 buildings on both sides of the harbour.
The replacement initiative followed Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po’s budget announcement in February.
He stated that the board would launch a series of new shows at various locations and times throughout the year.
At a Legislative Council Finance Committee meeting in April, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui announced that the board would allocate about HK$200 million to this measure. This funding will be used to launch a new light and shadow parade, including the light show on The Peak.
The show was meant to form part of a new light display set to premiere alongside the coming Hong Kong WinterFest mega-event.
4. What does the future hold for the new light display?
The project’s future remains uncertain following the public outcry. The board stated it would review the project, while security guards said that related work has
been suspended.
Law noted that the board and the Tourism Commission were currently gathering public feedback.
He added that a final decision on whether to include the installations in the Christmas display would come later.
