Consider Ma Tau Wai Estate. It is more than just a collection of buildings. Ma Tau Wai Estate stands as a testament to Hong Kong’s public housing history.
Ma Tau Wai Estate is located at 9 Shing Tak Street in Kowloon. This estate is the oldest existing public housing in Kowloon City District. Its five residential blocks were completed in 1962 and 1965.
Though developed by the Hong Kong Housing Authority, the Hong Kong Housing Society now manages Ma Tau Wai Estate.
Interestingly, part of the estate’s location was once the Ma Tau Chung Camp during World War II.
In 2007, a structural assessment confirmed the buildings were sound. This led to repairs to extend their lifespan by fifteen years.
Looking ahead, the Hong Kong Housing Authority announced reconstruction plans in 2014. This was part of a larger initiative to increase public housing supply. The plan included redeveloping housing estates over 40 years old, including Ma Tau Wai Estate.
Ma Tau Wai Estate consists of several houses. Hibiscus House was completed in 1962. Magnolia House, Rose House, Narcissus House and Geranium House were completed in 1965.
According to the 2016 census, Ma Tau Wai Estate had a population of 5,194. The median age was 51.4 years. Most residents were of Chinese ethnicity making up 96.7 percent. The average household size was 2.6 people. The median monthly household income was HK$19,250.
Ma Tau Wai Estate falls within the Ma Tau Wai constituency. Ken Tsang Kin-chiu represents this area on the Kowloon City District Council.
Education is a key aspect of community life here. Ma Tau Wai Estate is in Primary One Admission School Net 34.
Ma Tau Wai Estate stands as a reminder of Hong Kong’s commitment to providing affordable housing. It has evolved, adapted, and served as a home for generations.