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To enhance its position as a leader in basic research, the University of Hong Kong (HKU) has announced plans to establish the Global Innovation Centre (GIC), a state-of-the-art upstream technology research facility in Pokfulam.
The GIC is set to become a key platform for scholars and researchers to conduct transdisciplinary frontier research, supporting Hong Kong’s ambition of becoming a global hub for innovation and technology (I&T). By fostering a collaborative research environment, the new centre aims to contribute to both I&T advancement and sustainable economic growth, while aligning with broader national and regional development strategies.
HKU’s proposal for the GIC is currently going through the necessary statutory procedures as stipulated under the Town Planning Ordinance (TPO). Over the past few months, HKU has actively engaged with various stakeholders, collecting valuable feedback and suggestions regarding the proposed development. After thoroughly reviewing the public comments received, HKU has decided to make several strategic amendments to the GIC’s development plan.
The revised proposal includes reduced building density, a smaller overall mass, increased setbacks from nearby structures, and added green spaces to address environmental and community concerns.
These adjustments are intended to create a balanced approach that accommodates the project’s objectives while also considering the liveability and needs of the surrounding Pokfulam community. The proposed modifications reflect HKU’s commitment to responsible development practices and aim to minimise any potential negative impact on local residents. This strategic recalibration underscores HKU’s dedication to creating a research facility that not only enhances its academic and research capabilities but also harmonises with its immediate urban environment.
In line with this commitment, HKU has pledged to further engage with the community through a variety of communication channels as the project moves forward. The university intends to maintain an open dialogue to gather additional feedback and provide timely updates throughout the subsequent stages of the development process. Regular updates will be shared with local residents and other stakeholders to ensure that they remain informed about the project’s progress and any potential changes to the plan.
The establishment of the GIC is expected to be a significant step in fortifying Hong Kong’s position as an I&T hub. The centre will be designed to accommodate research that spans multiple disciplines, enabling the creation of a dynamic and collaborative research ecosystem. By attracting talent from various fields, HKU aims to elevate the quality and impact of research conducted within the region, which in turn, could drive innovation and contribute to the city’s long-term economic resilience.
The GIC will also serve as a catalyst for knowledge transfer and collaboration between academia and industry. By promoting closer ties between these sectors, the facility aims to bridge the gap between research and commercialisation, ultimately facilitating the translation of groundbreaking research into practical applications. Such developments are anticipated to bolster Hong Kong’s competitiveness on the global stage, fostering a more robust I&T landscape that aligns with both national aspirations and local economic goals.
HKU’s commitment to the GIC project is underscored by its proactive engagement with the Government and other relevant authorities. The university has communicated its revised plans and objectives to the Government and will continue to participate in public consultation sessions under the TPO. These sessions are designed to ensure that the planning process remains transparent and that the perspectives of all stakeholders are duly considered.
As one of the region’s premier academic institutions, HKU recognises the importance of integrating community feedback into its development strategies. The university remains dedicated to pursuing the GIC project in a manner that not only advances its research capabilities but also contributes positively to the broader socio-economic and environmental landscape of Hong Kong.
