Completed in 1997, Hiu Lai Court stands as a testament to Hong Kong’s unique Home Ownership Scheme. This program helps residents achieve the dream of homeownership. Hiu Lai Court isn’t just a cluster of buildings. It’s a vibrant community nestled in Kwun Tong, specifically at 21 Hiu Kwong Street. The Hong Kong Housing Authority developed Hiu Lai Court. It comprises eight 38-story buildings, housing a staggering 4,864 units. Think about the lives lived within these walls. Imagine the stories unfolding daily within Hiu Lai Court.
Hiu Lai Court offers a mix of studio and one- to two-bedroom apartments. Roughly half the units are spacious, over 800 square feet with two bathrooms. This caters to a variety of family sizes and needs within Hiu Lai Court. The court also boasts an array of amenities. Residents enjoy a multi-story car park, four children’s playgrounds, two fitness areas, a basketball court, and a volleyball court. Additional recreational facilities are located on the car park rooftop. These include two tennis courts and another volleyball court, though they are often underutilized. A convenient automated walkway connects Hiu Lai Court to the bustling Sau Mau Ping Shopping Centre.
Attached to Hiu Lai Court is the two-story Hiu Lai Shopping Centre. This center houses a variety of businesses. Residents have easy access to a Wellcome supermarket, 7-Eleven, food stalls, fashion boutiques, clinics, dental services, and restaurants. Since 2005, Link REIT has managed the shopping center. Interestingly, in 2018, parking fees at Hiu Lai Court saw a significant price hike. The monthly parking rate jumped from $3,380 to $3,800. This surpasses current parking fees in older districts like Tai Koo Shing. In 2020, Hiu Lai Court faced some challenges with its water supply. A persistent sewage leak led to multiple pump and pipe bursts. Some residents even reported being without water for showering after work. During the peak of the pandemic, the water supply was reportedly contaminated for nearly a week. This sparked resident protests and demands for a re-election of the owners’ corporation. However, the chairperson, So Lai-chun, failed to call a special general meeting within the required 14 days.
Despite the incident, the subsequent management and daily life at Hiu Lai Court continues. The complex provides a sanctuary in the heart of Kwun Tong. It offers a diverse community, a range of amenities, and a convenient location for its residents.