Yip On Factory Estate Site

In 2021, the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) decided to transform the Yip On Factory Estate. They envisioned a better use for this space. The Yip On Factory Estate, situated in Kowloon Bay, was one of six such estates owned by the HA. Others included Sui Fai Factory Estate, Wang Cheong Factory Estate, Kwai On Factory Estate, Chun Shing Factory Estate, and Hoi Tai Factory Estate. A study deemed Yip On, along with Sui Fai and Wang Cheong, suitable for redevelopment into public housing. This meant a significant increase in housing units, with Yip On alone projected to provide about 2,200 units by 2031. This would house approximately 6,000 people. The redevelopment plan for Yip On Factory Estate was ambitious. It included four residential blocks, a kindergarten, and various social welfare facilities. These facilities would cater to diverse needs, from elderly care to support for individuals with intellectual disabilities and mental health conditions. Beyond housing and social services, the Yip On Factory Estate redevelopment also incorporated recreational facilities. Green spaces, badminton courts, and a children’s playground were all part of the plan. The HA’s decision to redevelop these factory estates came in response to the 2019 Policy Address. This initiative highlighted the need for more public housing. The HA acknowledged the pressing demand. They aimed to expedite the process by clearing the estates and demolishing existing buildings. This would occur while the rezoning process was underway. The clearance arrangements included an 18-month notice for tenants to vacate, an ex-gratia allowance of 15 months’ rent, and options for relocating to other factory estates. For those not relocating, a cash sum was offered, with a bonus for vacating within nine months. While the Yip On Factory Estate transformation meant displacement for some, it represented a significant step towards addressing Hong Kong’s housing needs. The project promised not only homes but a vibrant community hub. It combined residential, educational, social, and recreational facilities in one location.