Gazing at South Horizons Phase 1, it’s hard to imagine this bustling residential complex was once a quiet bay, dotted with village houses and farmlands. South Horizons Phase 1 stands as a testament to Hong Kong’s remarkable transformation. It’s the first phase of a much larger private housing estate known as South Horizons, located on Ap Lei Chau island. Developed by Secan Limited, a Hutchison Whampoa associate company, this phase contributes to the estate’s impressive total of 9,812 residential units. The construction of the entire South Horizons, including Phase 1, was completed between 1993 and 1995.
South Horizons Phase 1 is more than just a collection of residential towers. It is part of Hutchison Whampoa’s vision of a “Garden City,” mirroring the earlier Whampoa Garden project in Hung Hom. The estate boasts over 50 plant species, creating a vibrant green space for residents. A nature trail winds along the shore, offering informative insights into the diverse flora. This commitment to greenery earned Phases II to IV a Silver Award for Landscape Design in 2004. But the tranquil environment of South Horizons Phase 1 belies a dramatic history.
Before the towering structures of South Horizons Phase 1 existed, the land housed the Ap Lei Chau Power Station and a Shell oil depot. The power station operated from 1968 to 1989, before its generators were moved to Lamma Power Station. The Shell Oil Depot, operating from 1970 to the late 1980s, met a less peaceful end. In 1973, a foundation failure caused a massive oil spill, releasing 3,600 metric tons of heavy marine diesel oil into Picnic Bay and Aberdeen Harbour. This environmental disaster paved the way for the depot’s eventual closure and relocation.
The development of South Horizons Phase 1 also marked a shift in Hong Kong’s property market. A new computer balloting scheme was introduced to manage the sale of flats, replacing the chaotic first-come, first-served system. This change aimed to curb the triad intimidation and disorder that had plagued previous sales, ensuring a fairer process for prospective buyers. Today, South Horizons Phase 1 stands as a vibrant community. It is served by the South Horizons MTR station and numerous bus routes, connecting residents to the wider city. The estate even boasts its own shopping centers, Marina Square West and Marina Square East, offering a convenient array of shops and restaurants. So, as you stand before South Horizons Phase 1, remember its journey. From a quiet bay to a powerhouse of industry, and finally to the thriving residential complex it is today, its story echoes Hong Kong’s own dynamic transformation.