Hong Kong to double shared water area in Kwun Tong typhoon shelter for events
Hong Kong plans to double the shared water area in Kwun Tong typhoon shelter to 200m by 1,000m by early 2027. The expanded zone will host water sports and events, including the 2027 World Dragon Boat Championships, while remaining available for shelter during typhoons.
The Hong Kong government plans to expand the shared water area in the Kwun Tong typhoon shelter and reorganise berths to accommodate more activities, including major international water sports events. The Marine Department proposed the changes in a document submitted to the Kwun Tong District Council.
Under the optimisation plan, the shared water area in the Kwun Tong typhoon shelter would be expanded from the current 100 metres by 1,000 metres to 200 metres by 1,000 metres, doubling its size. The department expects to implement the plan by late 2026 or early 2027.
During non-typhoon periods, the expanded shared water area would be reserved for water sports and events, including the World Dragon Boat Championships scheduled for October 2027. Local vessels would be allowed to pass through the area but not to stop, anchor, moor or tie up there.
When tropical cyclone warning signals are in force, the shared water area would revert to its shelter function, opening to local vessels for shelter until all warnings are lifted. A portion of the water would remain reserved as a navigation channel.
The plan also includes reorganising berths within the shelter to accommodate emergency government vessels. This involves adjusting the width of the navigation channel near the former Kai Tak runway section and relocating nine mooring buoys for government vessels off the Jockey Club Kai Tak Water Sports Centre. These changes would free up additional anchorage space, increasing the net area available for shelter during typhoons by about 2.5 hectares. After reserving required navigation channels, the available shelter water area would be sufficient for 75 barges to take shelter during typhoons.
The government said the expanded shared water area, combined with onshore facilities, would boost the local events economy, enhance Hong Kong's international image and bring positive economic effects.