Presenting itself proudly, Yee Ming Estate rises before us. This is more than just a housing complex. Yee Ming Estate represents a community and a solution to housing needs in Hong Kong.
Yee Ming Estate is located in the Sai Kung District. It sits specifically in Tseung Kwan O. Its address is 6 Chi Shin Street. You are only about a 5-minute walk from the Tseung Kwan O Station.
Yee Ming Estate is a public rental housing estate. The Hong Kong Housing Authority manages it. Construction was completed in 2014. Yee Ming Estate consists of three blocks. They are named Yee Fung House, Yee Hong House and Yee Ching House. Yee Fung House is 33 floors high. The other two blocks have 32 floors each.
Originally, only two blocks were planned for Yee Ming Estate. Later, one block was added to Yee Ming Estate. The original plan was 40 floors for each block. This was reduced to approximately 32 floors.
As of June 30 2023, Yee Ming Estate housed approximately 2,000 households. The estimated population was 5,300 residents. The flats range in size from 14.05 to 37.47 square meters. This is about 151.2 to 403.3 square feet.
Before Yee Ming Estate was even occupied, 42 flats were allocated. They were set aside as quarters for junior civil servants. This helped provide housing for essential government workers.
The estate has various facilities. There are children’s play areas for families with kids. Residents can enjoy a basketball court. Elderly fitness areas promote health. There are three shops for convenience. A car park serves residents with vehicles. The estate also features a Lutheran Church Yee Ming Lutheran Centre.
Yee Ming Estate has a garden spanning 5,700 square meters. This provides green space for recreation and relaxation.
Most flats in Yee Ming Estate face other blocks. However, some front units overlook the sea. They offer views of the Junk Bay堆填區 Stage I. These residents enjoy a glimpse of Hong Kong’s eastern waters.
Interestingly, Yee Ming Estate’s rental rates were among the highest. In 2013, the Housing Authority noted the high rental values. The rates were HK$64.4 per square meter in urban areas and HK$56.4 per square meter in the district.
For those who couldn’t afford the rent, options were available. Applicants could request a cheaper, refurbished unit. They could also apply for rent assistance. New tenants could not apply for rent assistance within the first two years.
As you stand here at Yee Ming Estate, consider its impact. It’s not just a place to live. It’s a testament to Hong Kong’s efforts to provide affordable housing and community spaces for its residents.