Contents
12.2 Legislation and Standards
Appendices
Appendix 12A
Guidelines for Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment
Appendix 12B
Guidelines for Marine Archaeological Investigation (MAI)
Appendix
12C Environmental Impact Assessment
Ordinance, Technical Memorandum – Annexes 10 and 19
Appendix
12D Archaeological Survey Report at Sha Lo
Wan (West) Southern Headland (march 2007)
Appendix
12F Relevant Marine Geophysical charts
Appendix
12G Seabed anomalies of possible cultural
significance
Figures
Figure 12.1
Layout and Study Area of HKLR
Figure
12.3 Locations of
Test Pits and Augur Holes Excavated at Sha Lo Wan Archaeological Site
12.1.1
Clause 3.4.8
of the EIA Study Brief (ref ESB-110/2003)
for HKLR (previously called the
12.1.2
The CHIA includes a Marine Archaeological
Investigation (MAI). The MAI guidelines set by the Antiquities and Monuments
Office (AMO) are the standard procedures within
12.2.1 The assessment and protection of cultural heritage within HKSAR is governed by the following legislative standards and guidelines:-
· Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (Cap 499);
· Antiquities and Monument Ordinance (Cap 53); and
·
12.2.2 Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance
12.2.2.1 The Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO) stipulates that consideration shall be given to cultural heritage and archaeological issues as part of the EIAO process. Annexes 10 and 19 of the TM-EIAO (see Appendix 12C) cite the following:-
· criteria for evaluating the impacts on sites of cultural heritage;
· guidelines for impact assessment;
· the general presumption in favour of the protection and conservation of all sites of cultural heritage because they provide an essential, finite and irreplaceable link between the past and the future and are points of reference and identity for culture and tradition; and
· adverse impacts on sites of cultural heritage shall be kept to the absolute minimum.
12.2.2.2 The Guidance Note on Assessment of Impact on Site of Cultural Heritage in Environmental Impact Assessment Studies (http://www.epd.gov.hk/eia/english/guid/cultural/basis.html) serves as a reference to facilitate an understanding of the requirements set out in Annex 10 and Annex 19 of the TM-EIAO for assessing impacts on sites of cultural heritage in EIA studies.
12.2.3 Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance
12.2.3.1 The Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance was enacted in 1976. It prescribes the regulation over the discovery, excavation and protection of antiquities in HKSAR.
12.2.3.2 Under this Ordinance, the Secretary for Development is the Antiquities Authority. The statutory Antiquities Advisory Board (AAB) consists of members with expertise in various relevant fields to advise the Antiquities Authority on any matters relating to antiquities and monuments. The Antiquities and Monuments Office (AMO), as the executive arm of the Antiquities Authority, provides secretarial and executive support to the AAB in conserving places of historical and archaeological interest.
12.2.3.3 The Antiquities Authority may, after consulting AAB and with the approval of the Chief Executive as well as the publication of the notice in government gazette, legally declare a place to be protected. The Antiquities Authority is empowered to prevent alterations, or to impose conditions upon any proposed alterations as appropriate to protect the monument.
12.2.3.4 In addition to declared monuments, a large number and variety of sites of cultural heritage are identified and recorded by AMO. Recorded historic buildings and structures are graded as Grades I, II or III by the AAB to indicate their relative importance, as defined below:-
Grade I |
Buildings of outstanding merit, which every effort should be made to preserve if possible. |
Grade II |
Buildings of special merit, efforts should be made to selectively preserve. |
Grade III |
Buildings of some merit, preservation in some form would be desirable and alternative means could be considered if preservation is not practicable. |
12.2.3.5 Guidelines on the approach, methodologies and criteria to be used in conducting a CHIA are included under Annex 10 and 19 of the EIAO TM, and the assessment criteria are explained in the Guidance Note on Assessment of Impact on Site of Cultural Heritage in EIA Studies. The criteria in EIAO-TM Annex 10 for evaluating impacts to sites of cultural heritage include:
· The general presumption in favour of the protection and conservation of all sites of cultural heritage because they provide an essential, finite and irreplaceable link between the past and the future and are points of reference and identity for culture and tradition; and
· Adverse impacts on sites of cultural heritage shall be kept to an absolute minimum.
12.2.3.6 Although graded buildings and structures, and deemed monuments carry no statutory protection, the Government has administrative procedures that require conservation be given to those historic buildings and sites of cultural heritage.
12.2.3.7 For archaeological sites, relics (defined under the Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance as fossils and objects/artefacts created, modified, etc. by human agency before 1800 AD) discovered after 1976 are, by law, properties of the government. All discoveries of antiquities or supposed antiquities must also be reported.
12.2.3.8 Archaeological sites are administratively classified into two categories, namely:-
․ Declared Monument – those that have been gazetted in accordance with Cap. 53 by the Antiquities Authority; and
․ Recorded Archaeological Sites – those which have not been declared but recorded by the AMO under administrative protection.
12.2.4
12.2.4.1 Chapter 10 of the HKPSG provides guidelines relating to the conservation of historic buildings, archaeological sites and other antiquities. The guidelines detail the methods for the conservation and preservation of protected monuments, the method of identifying and recording antiquities, particularly buildings which should be conserved and the recording and grading of such buildings and archaeological sites.
12.3.1.1 As stipulated in Section 3.4.8 of the EIA Study Brief (ESB-110/2003), the CHIA will follow the criteria and guidelines as stated in Annexes 10 and 19 of the TM-EIAO. The key stages for CHIA include the following:-
· Baseline study (including both desktop study and field survey);
· Impact evaluation; and
· Recommendation of mitigation measures.
12.3.2 Alignment
12.3.2.1 Section 3 has provided a detailed description of the preferred alignment of HKLR from the HZMB Main Section at HKSAR boundary to Sha Lo Wan, along Airport Channel and eventually connecting to the HKBCF.
12.3.2.2
Most of the sections
would be in the form of a viaduct except at 2 sections, including a 1.1km long
short tunnel underneath Scenic Hill and a 1.5km long at-grade road along the
east coast of
12.3.2.3
There would be some
reclamation of about 23ha along the eastern coast of
12.3.3.1 According to the EIA Study Brief, the study area for field survey and impact evaluation includes the area of potential impact that would be caused by the preferred HKLR alignment. The alignment and the study area are shown in Figure 12.1 and are summarised below:
Terrestrial archaeology |
A 50m buffer distance on both sides of the proposed alignment. |
Built heritage |
A 300m buffer distance on both sides of the proposed alignment. |
Marine archaeology |
A 100m buffer distance on both sides of the proposed alignment. |
12.4.1 Desk-top Research
12.4.1.1 The baseline study will include any areas impacted by the project as well as direct and indirect impact of ancillary works areas, access sites etc. The desktop study of known cultural heritage resources within the study area is given below.
12.4.1.2 AMO maintains a list of archaeological sites which is updated from time to time. This list can be consulted at the AMO. However, the list is not meant to be exhaustive, nor is the information contained therein comprehensive.
12.4.1.3 Other useful sources of relevant information include the tertiary institutions (e.g. the Hong Kong Collection at the University of Hong Kong Library, Departments of History and Architecture at the University of Hong Kong and the Chinese University of Hong Kong), public libraries and archives (e.g. Public Records Office), District Offices, District Lands Offices and Land Registries, etc.
12.4.1.4 There are 3 main archaeological surveys (see the first 3 items in Table 12-1) conducted in the study area of the Hong Kong Link Road between 1982 and 1998, including:-
· those by Peacock and Nixon in 1982 - 1985;
·
·
the
12.4.1.5
These archaeological
surveys present data from successive archaeological surveys across the
Table 12-1 Relevant Previous Studies for Terrestrial Archaeology
Report |
Relevance to this Study |
Report of the Hong Kong Archaeological Survey, volumes I-III [12-1] |
This report presents the results of the first
territory-wide archaeological survey in Hong Kong which included field visits
and field evaluation of known and potential archaeological sites across the |
Report of the
Archaeological Survey of |
An archaeological survey of North Lantau was commissioned by the AMO in 1991 and included survey and fieldwork at San Shek Wan, Sha Lo Wan (West), Sha Lo Wan, San Tau , Sha Tsui Tau and Pak Mong. This survey provides additional site information and follow-up data which elaborates and extends the field results obtained during the 1982-1985 survey (Peacock and Nixon, above). Notable additional Tang (唐) and Song (宋) period remains were found at Sha Lo Wan including stone spear and arrow heads, a stone axe mould and bronze knife. |
Second
Territory-wide archaeological survey of |
As part of the second territory-wide archaeological
survey of Hong Kong, a team from the Guangzhou Institute of Cultural Relics
and Archaeology conducted a program of field evaluation throughout the |
WP12 – Historical, Archaeological and Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment, (CE 1/97)[12-4] |
A Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment for a study area between Tung Chung and Tai Ho (occupying the eastern half of the HZMB study area) was conducted for TDD in 1999 in advance of New Town development at Tung Chung. This included archaeological field survey of sites at San Tau, Sha Tsui Tau, Ma Wan Chung, Pak Mong and Tai Ho Wan. No new sites were found though a cache of Tang period coins was discovered at San Tau. |
Archaeological
Investigations on [12-5] |
An archaeological survey of Chek
Lap Kok was conducted in 1990 in advance of
reclamation works and airport construction. Seven archaeological sites were
surveyed and recorded over a 9-month period. These included remains of middle
Neolithic pottery, Bronze Age burials and Tang period lime kilns which –
following excavation and recording – were removed during airport works.
The only archaeological site of relevance to the current study is at Ha Law
Wan (蝦螺灣) on the southern part of |
New Airport Master Plan – Environmental Impact Assessment [12-6] |
An EIA study conducted in 1990-1993 for the new
airport development at Chek Lap Kok
documented 7 archaeological sites. All of these have been removed with the
exception of the Yuan period kiln complex at Ha Law Wan which has been
preserved near Scenic Hill. A Neolithic and Bronze Age archaeological site at
Sha Lo Wan (West) was excavated in 1993 prior to removal of the headland for
airport works. Operational impacts of the new airport on archaeological sites
along the |
12.4.1.6 Reports and publications have also been reviewed for individual archaeological sites within the study area. Where relevant these have been cited in the archaeological summaries in Table 12-2. It is emphasised that the boundary of each archaeological site delimits an area within each region of both proven and potential archaeology. In effect the “archaeological site” has been defined by AMO to include areas where archaeological remains have been found and areas of potential. The location of these known archaeological sites are illustrated in Figure 12.2.
Table 12-2 Description of Terrestrial Archaeological Sites
San Shek Wan (䃟石灣) archaeological site [12-3] |
|
Sha Lo Wan (W) (沙螺灣西) archaeological site [12-7] |
|
Sha Lo Wan (沙螺灣) archaeological site [12-2] & [12-3] |
The Sha Lo Wan
archaeological site occupies an expansive open beach, a wide former estuary
(now infilled) and a hinterland of low slopes
which includes the |
San Tau (䃟頭) archaeological site [12-4] |
The San Tau archaeological
site lies on the western end of |
Ha Law Wan (蝦螺灣) archaeological site [12-5] |
Ha Law Wan is located on the
western side of Scenic Hill on |
Sha Tsui Tau (沙咀頭) archaeological site [12-8 and 12-9] |
The Sha Tsui Tau archaeological site lies at
the head of |
Ma Wan Chung (馬灣涌) archaeological site [12-4] |
The Ma Wan Chung
archaeological site is located on the eastern side of |
Pak Mong (白芒) archaeological site [12-10] * |
The Pak Mong archaeological
site lies to the east of |
Tai Ho (大蠔) archaeological site [12-4] * |
|
Tung Chung Game Board Carving [12-4] |
A rock carving of game board design and unknown date is located some 200m to the rear of the Tung Chung Battery. |
Fu Tei Wan Kiln [12-5] |
A Tang dynasty (A.D. 618-907) lime kiln was found at Fu Tei Wan, which was relocated to New Tung Chung Development Area. The site was destroyed by construction of the airport island. |
Notes : * These archaeological sites are stated in the EIA Study Brief for HZMB which has been renamed to HKLR. The latest HKLR alignment would now terminates at HKBCF which is more than 3 km from Pak Mong and Tai Ho. The description on Pak Mong and Tai Ho Archaeological Sites are therefore included for information only.
12.4.2 Terrestrial Archaeological Investigation
12.4.2.1 The preferred alignment would span over part of the Sha Lo Wan (West) Archaeological site. All the viaduct structure would not encroach into this archaeological site.
12.4.2.2 This will be the only area of archaeological potential impacted by the alignment. According to the EIA Study Brief ESB-110/2003, an archaeological survey was conducted in this area from Sept 6th – 15th 2004 within an area 50m on either side of the proposed alignment. The Archaeological Survey Report at Sha Lo Wan (West) Southern Headland (March 2007) is appended in Appendix 12D.
12.4.2.3
Sha Lo Wan (West) lies
on the northern coast of
Method
12.4.2.4 The field survey strategy included a desktop review of previous studies, air photo interpretation and an interpretation of local geomorphology. A field scan and sampling program (test pit and auger survey) was planned on both elevated and lower slope sites within the survey area with the aim of investigating the prospect of archaeology associated with the former promontory site and on the gentler slopes to the east. The area was overgrown with scrubby vegetation and a grid sampling method proved impractical.
Ground Survey Results
12.4.2.5 The field scanning program found nothing across the southern and western part of the study area, with the exception of a fragment (top half) of a large polished stone hammer found on the hilltop to the west of the study area.
12.4.2.6 On the eastern beach however, to the north of a small stream outlet in the centre of the beach, sparse Prehistoric and Tang Dynasty artefacts were found along an approximate 40m sector of the beach, eroded from a dark sandy horizon some 30 cm thick above the weathered bedrock at the head of the beach. This discovery drew attention to a probable source area behind the beach where prehistoric and historic period sherds were found along an abandoned and eroded trackway behind the beach. Further survey revealed the presence of an extensive and previously unmapped sand deposit some 50m x 70m in dimensions and at an elevation of between 3-7m PD - somewhat unexpected given the relatively small embayment and hinterland. The results of the ground survey implied that this area held considerable archaeological potential and it became a prominent focus of the test pit and auger program.
Test Pit Surveys
12.4.2.7 A total of 6 test pits and 22 auger holes and shovel tests were excavated across the study area to investigate both the extent and archaeological potential of the sand deposit to the rear of the eastern beach as well as previously unsurveyed areas throughout the study area including the hilltop.
12.4.2.8 Test Pits 2, 3, 4 and 5 were sited within the sand body proper. TP3 produced an assemblage (95 sherds) of both Tang Dynasty ribbed plain ware and several crackled glaze fragments above a layer of Late Neolithic soft geometric stamped pottery, coarse-corded ware and well-fired geometric ware. TP2 and TP4 also produced Tang Dynasty sherds while auger holes 3, 7 and 17 yielded Late Neolithic and Tang Dynasty sherds.
12.4.2.9 An additional test pit and auger hole located on the main hillcrest failed to find any archaeological material to the west of the study area. While in a less prominent position, when compared with the headland site excavated in 1993, the presence of archaeological remains on this hilltop should not be ruled out. A test pit and auger hole was also located on the western beach where the hinterland rises steeply behind the beach. Sampling here and within mid and lower slope positions along the southern and northern margin a of the study area also failed to find archaeological remains.
12.4.2.10 The sand body on the eastern side of the remaining Sha Lo Wan (W) headland occupies much of the small valley and gentle hinterland in two broad lobes of variable thickness, some 200m2 in area.
12.4.2.11 Based on the amount and distribution of both Tang Dynasty and Late Neolithic pottery from sample sites TP2, TP3, A3 and A7 there is a concentration of archaeological remains from these periods at the northern half of this feature. The archaeological finds described above and the identification of a sand deposit on the eastern side of the Sha Lo Wan (W) headland suggest that this area holds further archaeological potential.
12.4.2.12 Figure 12.3 shows the locations of the test pits and auger holes excavated at Sha Lo Wan (West) Archaeological Site.
Discussion of Survey Results
12.4.2.13 It would seem reasonable to speculate that the age and proximity of these finds to the rich Late Neolithic site excavated in 1993 - on the (now removed) promontory to the north – that both sites would have been connected. Indeed contemporary occupation of both areas might be strongly argued on the basis that the beach and rear-beach site found during this survey offers a more sheltered setting and beach access not offered by the hilltop site. There must have been transit between the promontory and the nearby beach and likely habitation of the rear beach – at the same time and likely by the same people who were engaged in a range of activities on the promontory.
12.4.2.14 If this is the case and the entire promontory might be considered as a Late Neolithic archaeological complex - with the northern part of this complex gone- the southern part may yet provide evidence of contemporary and varied activity.
12.4.3 Impacts Evaluation
12.4.3.1 All the bridge structure would totally avoid the Sha Lo Wan (West Archaeological Site) during both the construction and operational phases. Hence, there will be no direct impacts. Indirect impacts such as traffic noise would also be insignificant since the deck structure would have provided significant screening effect.
12.4.4 Recommendations
12.4.4.1 Since there are no significant direct and indirect impacts during the construction and operational phases, mitigation measures are not required and there are no residual impacts.
12.4.4.2 As a precautionary measure, periodic monitoring of construction works should be conducted to ensure the avoidance of any impacts on the Sha Lo Wan (West) Archaeological Site. Access to the said archaeological site for works area and storage of construction equipment is not allowed.
12.5.1 Desk-top Research
12.5.1.1 There are no declared monuments within the HKLR study area. However, there are 2 declared monuments (ie the Tung Chung Battery and Tung Chung Fort) lying at beyond 500m from the preferred alignment.
12.5.1.2
Further references
include the Tung Chung Fort [12-11], Forts and Batteries, Coastal defence in
12.5.1.3 A summary of built heritage for the Tung Chung – Tai Ho region is also provided within the Historical chapter of the TDD 1999 report [12-4] on Tung Chung redevelopment.
12.5.1.4 Table 12-3 summarises localities within the study area based on a review of available data on built heritage, which has been supplemented by limited field survey. These include villages/districts of Kau Liu, San Tau, Tin Sum, Sha Lo Wan and San Shek Wan cited within the Study Brief.
Table 12-3 Summary of Built Heritage
Built Heritage |
Approximate distance from HKLR |
Description |
San Shek Wan (䃟石灣) [12-4] |
600m |
San Shek Wan has few buildings, which are over 50 years old. Most are of single storey stone construction. A temple – one hall type – was originally a shrine, which was developed as a temple in the mid 20th century. A Qing period inscription (renovated 1933) exists on the path toward Nam Tin - south of San Shek Wan. |
Sha Lo Wan Tsuen (沙螺灣村) [12-4] |
150m – temples; 300m - villages |
Sha Lo Wan Tsuen is a notable historic village with a Pa Kong (harbour guarding) Hung Shing temple - with a bronze bell dating to 1774 – and a two-hall Tin Hau temple built in the early 18th century. Both temples are near the beach, with the main village about a kilometre inland. The entrance to Sha Lo Wan Tsuen is through the remains a village wall and stone gateway. There are three ancestral halls, two of modern construction, the third (Man Ancestral Hall) is currently being rebuilt. There are 5 rows of Hakka village houses of stone, mud and green brick construction. |
San Tau (䃟頭) [12-4] |
300m |
The San Tau region includes the, villages of San Tau, Tin Sam (田心) and Kau Liu (較寮). San Tau is a small village with ancestral halls of the Ho and Tse families. There are 3 rows of old stone and green brick houses, many in ruin. Tin Sam is a small hamlet about 150m north of Kau Liu with 2 rows of old stone houses and stone well. Kau Liu is a small hamlet some 250m north –west of San Tau with a notable row of 3 green brick buildings and house ruins. There are two prominent Fung Shui elements in the San Tau area - the elephants trunk Fung Shui element which extends north-south, following the course of the main river through San Tau and the dragons back element follows the ridgeline to the immediate west of the village. |
Tung Chung Fort (東涌炮台) [12-4] |
1.5km |
Tung Chung Fort lies at the head of |
Tung Chung Battery (東涌小炮台) [12-4] |
1.2km |
Tung Chung Battery is an early 19th century
fortification located on an elevated setting on the eastern side of |
Kau Liu |
400m |
Kau Liu is a small hamlet some 250m north–west of San Tau and contains a notable row of three green brick Hakka style buildings and scattered house ruins. The typical design of these buildings is of a one-hall-one room type, built of green bricks with timber framed pitched ceramic tiled roof. Cocklofts are common above the back room. These houses are not graded historical buildings. A small earth god lies opposite the school at Kau Liu. The school was built in 1959. |
Tin Sam |
300m |
Tin Sam is a small hamlet about 150m north of Kau Liu with two rows of stone houses and an old stone well. The houses are not of traditional Hakka design and have been abandoned. |
12.5.1.5 Figure 12.2 shows built heritage in the surroundings of the preferred alignment. Field survey method of this area was in general accordance with BHIA guidelines issued by the AMO and Annex 10 and 19 of the EIAO - Technical memoranda. It should also be noted that other than Sha Lo Wan, all built heritage shown in Figure 12.2 are beyond 300m from the alignment. They are included in the above Table 12-3 for reference only. For Pak Mong and Tai Ho, although they are mentioned in the Study Brief, they are located more than 3 km from the project and hence are not included in the assessment.
Sha Lo Wan Areas
12.5.1.6 As discussed above, there are 2 temples and a shrine fall in Sha Lo Wan that are within 150m of the preferred alignment. The main village complex of Sha Lo Wan Tsuen is some 500m from the coast and hence there is large buffer distance in between. At this distance, there will be no direct impacts to any of the structures and any adverse indirect impacts will be minimal.
12.5.1.7
A location map of the temples at Sha Lo Wan is provided in Image
1 of Appendix 12E.
Both temples face Northeast and the
(1)
12.5.1.8
The Hung Shing
12.5.1.9
Hung Shing is one of the popular sea gods within southern
12.5.1.10 The name Ba Gong means “guarding the bay”. This suggests that the purpose of the temple is to guard the bay, prevent strong tides and provide protection from bad weather. Sha Lo Wan village faces north east in a topographic setting prone to strong tides and storms - particularly during typhoons. To protect the village, legend has it that the village chief hundreds of years ago asked a Fung Shui master for advices about the location of a temple. He proposed to build a temple in guarding the bay. Then they invited the Ba Gong Da Wang ( the king of bay guarding) Hong Sheng stayed into this temple. After that, there were no flooding in Sha Lo Wan village.
Architectural detail : The Door and Roof Motifs
12.5.1.11 There are dragon motifs on each of the front doors of the Hung Shing Temple to guard the temple and two dragons on the ridge of the roof between a pearl – a common feature of ridge decoration in temples throughout Hong Kong.
(2)
12.5.1.12
The Tin Hau Temple (天后宮) in Sha Lo
Wan was built at 1819. Tin Hau is one of the main
gods, worshipped by fishermen throughout
Architectural detail : The Door Gods and Chi Wen (鴟吻)
12.5.1.13 There are two groups of door gods on the front of the temple’s doors. The duties of door gods are guarding the temples and keeping the bad spirits away from the temple. The god on the left door with a black face is called Qu-Chi Jing De (屈遲敬德) and the one on the right with a white face who called Qin Shu Bao (秦叔寶).
12.5.1.14
There are two fish-like figures located
on the two sides of the main ridge of the Tin Hau
temple called Chi Wen (Image 6). These figures are
common on temples throughout
12.5.1.15 Chi Wen is one of the nine sons of dragon. Chi Wen stays always at the top temple and two side of main ridge. Because Chi Wen is spirit of water, it can prevent conflagration; it likes looking into the distance from a high place.
(3) Earth Shrine (refer item 3 on location plan and images of Appendix 12E)
12.5.1.16 A small earth shrine lies about 5m to the north of the Tin Hau temple. The condition of the shrine is good.
12.5.2 Impact Evaluation
12.5.2.1 There will be no direct impacts associated with either the construction or operational phase of the project as there were no recorded heritage resources in either of the alignment or works areas along the alignment. The following indirect impacts were assessed for both the construction and operational phases for the temples and shrine at Sha Lo Wan.
· Visual and aesthetic impacts on heritage resources; and
· Noise impact.
Construction Phase
12.5.2.2 The evaluation of impacts during the construction phase is given below.
Table 12-4 Evaluation of Impacts – Construction Phase
Resource |
Separation to Works Area |
Impact Assessment - visual |
Impact Assessment - noise |
|
150 m
|
There will be some visual or aesthetic impacts associated with the proposed viaduct which lies within clear view and 150m to the north of the temples and shrine. The construction works areas would be about 100m from the temple and hence visual impact would not be significant. |
There will be some construction noise impacts on worship and observance at festival time. Construction noise impacts (see Section 6) has revealed that the noise level would comply with the criteria and hence mitigation measure is not required.
|
Operational Phase
12.5.2.3 The evaluation of impacts during the operational phase is given below.
Table 12-5 Evaluation of Impacts – Operational Phase
Resource |
Separation to Alignment |
Impact Assessment - visual |
Impact Assessment - noise |
|
150m
|
There will be some visual or aesthetic impacts associated with the proposed project as the HKLR route lies within clear view and 150m to the north of the temples and shrine. Aesthetic design on HKLR will be provided in the detailed design stage to minimise the visual impacts. |
There will be some traffic noise impacts on worship and observance at festival time for the same reason. Operational noise impact (see Section 6) has revealed that the noise level would comply with the criteria and hence mitigation measure is not required.
|
12.5.3 Historical Land Use Patterns and Cultural Landscape Features
12.5.3.1 These resources include historical terracing, for both agricultural and slope management functions, field patterns and traditional track ways as well as fung shui features, such as ponds, woods and lines. There are no historical land use patterns were identified in the field scan of the works area.
12.5.4
Pre-War / Clan
12.5.4.1 Field investigations were undertaken to identify the presence of any pre World War II / Clan graves in the Study area. A grave survey was conducted which is described below.
Methodology
12.5.4.2 Information on graves was collected in the field through on-site surveys and interviews with local informants. Aerial photographs and topographical maps were used to identify the presence of graves.
Results of Grave Survey
12.5.4.3 No pre-war graves were recorded during the survey. Several remains of graves lie on the hill to the east of the Sha Lo Wan headland although these are in complete disrepair and do not appear to have been visited for decades. A small multi-pot graves lies on the eastern side of the headland which does indeed appear to be visited. This grave does not appear to be pre-war.
12.5.5 Recommendations
12.5.5.1 As the alignment will span over the Sha Lo Wan west headland there will be no direct impacts on any graves within the area. As no pre-war graves were located and there are no indirect impacts. Mitigation measures are therefore not required.
12.6.1 The primary focus of the marine archaeology study follows a 4 stage process as outlined in the EIA Study Brief and AMO’s requirements. This includes:-
(a) A baseline review, which includes both a summary of historical sources and geological maps and texts.
(b) A review which contributes to the design and interpretation of results from a submarine geophysical survey of the study area. The geophysical survey will deploy high resolution seismic (boomer), side scan sonar and an echo sounder.
(c) Data examined from desktop information and the geophysical survey has been analyzed to provide an indication of the character and extent of marine archaeological resources within the study area. This would facilitate formulation of a strategy for investigation. Image 8 of Appendix 12E shows the extent of geophysical surveys.
(d) Where necessary, remote Operated Vehicle (ROV)/Visual Diver Survey/Watching Brief will be conducted subject to the outcome of the above tasks to evaluate areas of archaeological potential. These areas can be inspected by ROV or divers. ROV or a team of divers with both still and video cameras would be used to record all seabed features of archaeological interest. A watching brief may be undertaken in the event of heavy marine traffic.
12.6.2 If archaeological material is found, AMO will be contacted immediately to seek guidance on its significance and appropriate mitigation measures would be designed and implemented by the project proponent.
Environment, Geology and Setting
12.6.3
The study area is dominated by the
12.6.4 To the east of CLK is an expanse of shallow water, less than 2.5m, where the seabed composes of fine black sandy mud, mixed in some areas with patches of shell [12-14] as shown in Image 10 of Appendix 12E. Similar conditions are found in the narrow stretch of water between CLK and Lantau. The seabed in this area is also composed of black sandy mud with shell patches, and pebbles within the matrix as well.
12.6.5 To the west of CLK and Lantau, the water depths increase gradually to 10m where the study area meets the HKSAR Boundary [12-15]. However a chart of the area made in 1780 shows shoal waters to the west of CLK (Image 11 of Appendix 12E). This could possibly indicate that the area was shallower over 200 years ago or that the captain of the vessel undertaking the survey thought that the area was too shallow to be considered worth navigating for European vessels and therefore did not bother conducting the survey there. The seabed is similar that currently known elsewhere within the study area that is, it is composed of fine sand black mud with shell.
12.6.6 The shore line bounding the study area is a mixture of reclaimed shoreline and unreclaimed rocky shore. For the most part, the shoreline of CLK is man-made however remnants of the rocky shoreline of original island is visible in the south east corner the airport. On Lantau the eastern shore is composed of reclaimed land up to eastern end of Tung Chung Wan. From Tung Chung Wan to the south western edge of the study area the shore line is pebbly with occasional sections of low cliffs. The seabed immediately adjacent to the shoreline is rocky, some parts of which are exposed at low tide.
12.6.7
A large volume of borehole data for
12.6.8
The CLK formation is 15-20m thick and
represents the old Pleistocene sediments, which indicate a predominantly
fluvial with fluctuating estuarine environment. Deep incised channels imply
phases of erosion and palaeo-drainage to the north (
12.6.9
The Sham Wat formation was recognized relatively recently, 1995, and
overlies the Chek Lap Kok
formation with a maximum thickness of 17 metres and occurs both north and south
of
12.6.10
The Hang Hau formation is the most widely
developed offshore superficial deposits in the
12.6.11
The area is
protected from winds from the south and eastern quadrants. The exception
to this is the extreme western end of the study area which is exposed to winds
from the south west. The present day CLK
airport protects the northern
12.6.12
No wind data for the study area was available at the time of
writing. From published sources the predominant wind directions for the
Baseline Review
12.6.13 Desktop sources for marine archaeology are summarised in Table 12-6:
Table 12-6 Information Sources for Marine Archaeology
Location |
Information |
Extensive seabed survey data collected from previous geological research. |
|
An archive of all survey data collected by naval hydrographers. |
12.6.14 The above data sources provide historical records and more detailed geological analysis of submarine features which may have been subsequently masked by more recent sediment deposits and accumulated debris. A marine geophysical survey has been conducted to identify the targets for visual diver survey.
12.6.15 It is understood that there have been no previous marine archaeological investigations within the HZMB study area.
Historical and Potential Inundated Terrestrial Sites
12.6.16 The earliest known archaeological sites in Hong Kong, such as those at Yim Tin Tsam, Kiu Tsui Chau, Pa Tau Kwu, Stonecutters Island, Tai A Chau, Cheung Sha, Yung Shue Wan, are littoral sites and all post date 6,000 yBP [12-19]. There are no recorded archaeological sites in Hong Kong which pre-date this period – while earlier cave sites exist in Guangdong [12-20] there is no evidence for sites of Early Neolithic or earlier (Mesolithic/Pleistocene) date in and around Hong Kong.
12.6.17
However, it is likely that human occupation occurred in Hong Kong during
these earlier phases – and given the pattern of Neolithic occupation and its
maritime focus in Hong Kong, it is likely that earlier sites too were coastal
and that watercraft use was also prevalent for fishing, transport and local
trade from this early period. Yet due to the last post-glacial rise in global
sea levels, commencing around 18,000 yBP and
stabilising around 6,000 yBP [12-21 and 12-22], human
habitation sites on the earlier exposed coastal and estuarine areas have become
inundated, with occupation shifting towards higher ground. In light of these
changes in sea level in the last 12,000 years, the earliest evidence of human
habitation within
12.6.18 The prospect that submerged prehistoric sites might be preserved and detectable in the present setting is negligible. It is however possible to reconstruct the landscape of this period using offshore geophysical data and provide a conceptual notion of the environmental setting and possible occupation sites:-
(a)
Immediately following the end of the last Glacial Period coastal sites
would have been focused at the margin of the continental shelf – as far as
120km south-east of Hong Kong at about 18000 yBP. The
landscape north of
(b)
With sea-level rise at about 10m per 500 years and a relatively rapid
shift of the coastline from the Continental shelf toward Hong Kong, coastal
sites are still likely to have been focused on the south-east margin of
(c)
The palaeo-drainage to the north of
(d) The palaeo-drainage of this area suggests that, particularly east of Chek Lap Kok – valleys trend N-S and were rather narrow. This implies that embayments and estuaries at the coast of these valleys would have been relatively small and perhaps not ideal occupation sites. Further to the west, the Tung Chung and Sham Wat valleys appear less structurally controlled, rather more open and therefore offering more attractive beach and estuarine sites for occupation in the period 8000 – 6000 yBP.
(e) It is also notable that during this period of the marine transgression was advancing at some 4-5m per year or 150m in a generation, a factor which would have prevented long periods of continuous coastal occupation.
(f) As sea-levels stabilized at about 6000 yBP the attraction of the northern coast of Lantau Island including Chek Lap Kok Island for prehistoric settlement is supported by the discovery of prominent coastal sites at Sha Lo Wan, Ha Law Wan, Sham Wan and Pak Mong which variably suggest occupation from Late Neolithic to Han period.
(g)
While sea-levels have been relatively stable over the past 6000 years,
small fluctuations of a few metres have been argued [12-23, 12-24, 12-25],
which allied with periods of deforestation – have altered erosion regimes and
modified the coastal environment across North Lantau. What were former
navigable estuaries – such as at Sha Lo Wan and
12.6.19
Several Late Neolithic (post 6,000 yBP) sites
have been identified along coastal and estuarine areas of
12.6.20
Archaeological investigations on the
12.6.21 Sandy deposits at the base of the hill at Sham Wan Tseun, on the northern coast, have revealed painted and incised pottery dating to the Middle Neolithic, the earliest known phase of Hong Kong’s prehistory (red painted pottery oc c. 7,000 – 6,000 yBP) as well as Late Neolithic materials.
12.6.22 Fu Tei wan, on a coastal plateau on the SW coast, revealed evidence of Middle Neolithic occupation – C14 dates of 6,000 – 5,300 yBP – including numerous polished stone tools, pottery and a few complete pots found in pits, probably burial offerings.
12.6.23 Two sites at Kwo Lo Wan on the south-east coast, on the hillslope above the beach, also yielded Middle Neolithic occupation with large amounts of unique, incised pottery and five groups of burial offerings. Six Bronze Age burials were also discovered, with C-14 dates of 3,400 – 2,800 yBP. Bronze bivalve casting moulds, several sets of polished stone rings and a piece of fine textile stuck to and preserved by a corroded bronze object were also found.
International Trade, Defence and Salt - Qin (221-206 B.C.E.) to Late Ming (1500-1644 C.E.)
12.6.24
The early
maritime history in the region is linked with international trade, defence and
salt – as early as the Qin Dynasty (221-206 B.C.E.)
to Late Ming (1500-1644 C.E.). The
intensity of shipping in the Lantau area increased dramatically from the time
of the Qin Dynasty (221-206 B.C.E.), centred on
12.6.25
Around this time
12.6.26
The destination
for these trading vessels has always seen the rich merchant
12.6.27
Lantau at this time was of interest to the Government through its salt
producing capabilities. An Assistant to the Imperial Salt Commissioner
based in
12.6.28
During the 12th
century C.E. the Southern Song Dynsaty
established its capital at
12.6.29 In the second half of the 13th century, as the lands of the Southern Song were being overrun by the Mongols, the fleeing Imperial court on several occasions took refuge on Lantau. Before finally leaving Lantau, the young Emperor, Tak Yau (德祐) died and his half brother, Prince Ping (帝昺) was enthroned. These events took place in north Lantau and most likely at Tung Chung [12-4].
12.6.30
Of particular
interest to the current study is the archaeological site of Ha Law Wan, on the
western side of Scenic Hill, Chek Lap Kok, dating to the Yuan period (1271-1368 C.E.). Archaeological excavations conducted at this
site in 1990 and 1991 (prior to airport development) revealed a complex of
thirteen Yuan period kilns, thought to be used for
smelting the iron-rich sands. Ha Law Wan was originally a west facing bay
located on the western side of
12.6.31
Each of the
thirteen kilns identified at Ha Law Wan had been dug into the surrounding slope
and were found in various states of preservation. Their construction included a
lining of baked mortar with stone-lined outlets and chimney structures -
evident wherever the kiln roof remained intact. All were roughly oval in shape
and 1.5 - 2m in diameter, usually less than 1m high and filled with silt. Kiln
No. 6 was completely filled which is certain to have led to its complete
preservation (with roof in tact and four chimney structures). Sparse Tang and
Song period pottery fragments were also found during excavation of the kiln
structures. The Ha Law Wan site was dated by C-14 to c. 1250-1400 C.E., roughly corresponding to the Yuan Dynasty. This
kiln complex at Ha Law Wan is unlike any described in historical sources or
reported from
12.6.32 A second kiln complex – Tang culture – of very different construction to Ha Law Wan, has also been identified on Chek Lap Kok on a sand bar at Sham Wan Tsuen. Archaeological investigations at this site have revealed a total of twelve kilns and three clay structures, probably slaking pits, along with a large quantity of Tang pottery and over one hundred coins.
The Age of Piracy – Middle to Late Ming (1500-1644) to Qing (1644-1911)
12.6.33
In 1513 the
first Europeans, the Portuguese, arrived in their vessels at the
12.6.34
No doubt influenced by the Portuguese attack, six guard stations were
established in the
12.6.35 The present villages around Tai O were founded from the mid 18th century onwards, with the earliest recorded village, Pak Mong, being settled in 1740. The presence of two small cannons (jingals) at Tin Liu, a small hamlet adjacent to Tai O, suggests continued concerns regarding defence against pirates.
12.6.36
The troubles
with piracy and the anti-trade tendencies in the Ming and Qing periods affected
trade out of
12.6.37
Piracy continued to be endemic in the waters around Lantau well into the
19th century. One of the most notorious pirates was Cheung Po Tsai (張保仔)
from XinHui (
12.6.38 Of particular importance to the current study is a battle between Chang Po Tsai and his “Ladrones” (Portuguese for pirates) and a Chinese Government funded fleet – Portuguese and Chinese vessels known as the “Invincible Squadron” – in a bay off Lantau in 1809. The exact location of the battle is not known, however, it is widely interpreted that the bay referred to in historical accounts of the battle is Tung Chung as the Ladrones were known to have a base there.
12.6.39
Early in November 1809, Chang Po Tsai and his wife, “pirate queen” Zhang
Yisao, were in Tung Chung with only two ships when
they were threatened by three Portuguese ships and a brig. Chang Po Tsai
directed two fleets of Ladrone vessels (Red Flag
Fleet & Black Flag Fleet), who were raiding the
12.6.40 Historical sources regarding the battle – including official Qing and Portuguese accounts and an eyewitness account by British East Indiamen Officer Richard Glasspoole, a captive of the Ladrones – are rather varied; the offical records state that 1,4000 pirates were killed and many pirate ships sunk or damaged, whereas Glasspoole’s account records that only 30-40 pirates were killed and not a single Ladrone vessel destroyed. Nonetheless, while it is impossible to determine the true details, it is almost certain that by the end of the battle, the strength of the pirate fleet was very little affected [12-35].
12.6.41 The pirate tradition in Lantau was so prevalent that the Tanka people of Tai O have a song, which celebrates the exploits of the female pirate, Lady Cheng I Sao. She and her confederate Chang Po Tsai, held off an attack of government vessels for a week in Tung Chung Wan. The date of this event is not known at present.
12.6.42
In the 19th
century the Qing Government had given the task of protecting the coastal area
of
12.6.43
The garrison
could not have been that effective as in November 1854, an expedition was sent to
Tai O to deal with pirate junks that had fired on the Queen, an American naval
steamer. After shelling and an assault by hastily collected squadron of
European vessels, the pirate junks and storehouses were destroyed.
Additional naval encounters were recorded in the area 1809, 1857 and
1864. Two of these encounters took place in Tung Chung Wan. By the
end of the 19th century piracy in
The Modern Period - 1900 to the Present
12.6.44
The modern
period saw the northern part of Lantau remain poorly developed and rather
neglected by the ever-expanding
12.6.45
Of profound
influence to the landscape of
12.6.46
The
construction of CLK airport also involved various
infrastructure works around the artificial
12.6.47
From current hydrographic charts it appears that a channel, 5 metres in
depth, has been dredged through the shallow waters to the east of CLK, most likely for the purposes of allowing larger
vessels to access Tung Chung. A dredged channel seems also to be
maintained in the narrow stretch of water between Lantau and CLK to depth of 7m (Image 10 of Appendix 12E). A
promontory on the northern
Dredging History
12.6.48 A search of the CEO library, Port Works Authority, CEDD and Marine Department revealed no information about dredging of fill management within study area. However, dredging activity has taken place in the last 15 years as can be shown on the Hydrographic Chart.
Shipwreck Records
12.6.49
Available shipwreck data for
12.6.50 It should be noted that marine surveys by the UK Hydrographic Office were only interested in recording the location of shipwrecks, which could be a hazard to navigation. Therefore wrecks that may be hundreds of years old, which have a low profile on the seabed or may be partially buried, would not have been recorded as they did not necessarily pose a threat to shipping.
12.6.51
The closest
known shipwreck to the study area appears in a 1990 chart of the Outer
Approaches to
12.6.52 Enquires at the Hong Kong Hydrographic Office and the Civil Engineering Office did not reveal any additional information on the locations of any shipwrecks within the study area. It should be noted that in recent years the HKSAR boundary in the vicinity of Lantau has been moved further to the west. These waters are not as well surveyed as the rest of HKSAR.
Summary of Maritime Archaeological Potential from Baseline Review
12.6.53 From the historical and archaeological summary presented above, a review of known cultural activities relevant to local maritime archaeology includes: transportation, and trade, military activity; fishing, piracy, anchorages (along major trade route and for war junks), customs and policing. As a result, the following archaeological site types might be expected within the study area:-
· shipwrecks;
· anchors;
· moorings;
· anti-ship stakes;
· remnant salt pans;
· maritime related structures such as jetties and navigation aids; and
· submerged terrestrial sites.
12.6.54 The potential for the extent and frequency of the submerged cultural heritage is summerised as follows (Image 22 of Appendix 12E):-
· There is potential for shipwrecks to be present across the study area, with the exception of areas that have been dredged.
·
The likelihood for the presence of
shipwrecks increases closer to the northern shoreline of Lantau west of Tung
Chung Wan, in Tung Chung Wan and the eastern shore of
·
Anchors can be expected
to be found on the rocky seabeds adjacent to the
northern
· Moorings are more likely to be present in, and near to, the bays within the study area, in particular Tung Chun Wan.
· It is unlikely that the anti-ship stakes from 1179 C.E. would be in situ. If they are any remains of such devices they would be situated in the mud seabed in the peripheral corners of Tung Chung Wan.
· Jetties and other maritime related structures are expected to be found within the bays of the study area with a greater frequency of such remains being present in Tung Chung Wan.
· The remains of salt pans are most likely expected to be found along the shores of Tung Chung Wan.
·
Evidence of submerged
remains of prehistoric settlements can be expected to be found throughout the
study area. It appears that dredging that has been conducted to the south
and the east of
Geophysical Survey
12.6.55 In compliance with Stage 2 of the MAI guidelines three marine geophysical surveys are relevant for this study (Image 23 of Appendix 12E). The first and most extensive survey was conducted by EGS between May and June 2004 [12-38]. The later surveys were conducted in reaction to changes to the proposed bridge alignment and cover previously unsurveyed areas. IGGE surveyed a relatively small area to the west of CLK on the HKSAR border in late 2005 while in late 2008 EGS surveyed the seabed off the north east corner of CLK as part of HKBCF component of the project [12-39 and 12-40].
12.6.56
The main EGS marine geophysical survey was carried out during the
period 9th May to 14th June 2004. The survey was conducted using
primarily a marine seismic profiler and a dual side scan sonar. Because
of the variable water depths throughout the survey area, three vessels of
varying drafts were used. The main survey vessel, MV Wing Hung 8,
was used in the deeper waters. In the shallow waters a sampan was
deployed. A fibre glass speed boat was used in the very shallow waters in
the Airport Channel (situated between Lantau and CLK)
and
12.6.57 The IGGE survey took place between the 29th November and 5th December 2005. It was conducted aboard the MV Hung Kuk using a marine seismic profiler and dual channel side scan sonar.
12.6.58 The EGS 2008 survey used side scan sonar, multi-beam sonar and marine seismic profiling was carried out. Some magnetometer survey work was conducted to the north of CLK, which was outside the assessment scope for this EIA.
12.6.59 The scope and objectives of the three marine geophysical surveys are described in Table 12-7:
Table 12-7 Objectives of marine geophysical surveys relevant to this EIA
EGS (2004) |
IGGE (Late 2005) |
EGS (Late 2008) |
* To map the sea bed and underlying significance geological horizons, and to provide this data in a form suitable for use during the bridge design. * To record sea bed features such as wrecks and rock outcrops. * To determine the extent of present and past fishing activities. |
* To determine underlying significant geological horizons. * To map seabed features. * To locate man made objects, wrecks, rock outcrops and ‘main’ anomalies. * To map seabed topography in the survey area. |
* Identify the geological succession at and beneath the study area. * Identify objects at or above the sea bed, such as rock outcrops, dumped materials and other artefacts. * To measure seabed levels in detail. * To locate the alignment of existing cables. |
12.6.60 The marine geophysical survey covered the whole of the nominated, and expanded marine geophysical survey area, with the exception of the immediate shorelines of both the Airport, the North Lantau coast and part of southern Tung Chung Bay, where water depth was too shallow for survey boat access. An area of approximately 750 x 750 m was also not recorded in the vicinity of aeronautical lights and landfall of the Hutchison cable on the eastern shore of CLK (see Image 24 of Appendix 12E).
12.6.61 For the side scan sonar survey, the distances between the survey tracks (or transects) were set to ensure that 100% of the seabed was recorded. The distance between the tracks for side scan sonar work is dependent on water depth. This is due to the design of side scan sonar where the greater the water depth, the greater the coverage and therefore the greater the distance between tracks. The reverse is the case with shallow water. For the majority of the waters east of the CLK and all of waters between CLK and Lantau, the distances between the tracks were approximately 20m. For the extreme eastern part of the marine geophysical survey area and all of the waters west of CLK and Lantau, the distances between the tracks were approximately 40 metres.
12.6.62 For the marine seismic profiling the distance between the survey tracks was 40 metres, which was deemed – within the scope of the project – an appropriate coverage of the sub-seabed.
12.6.63
The shorelines
of both north Lantau and
12.6.64
Particular physical constraints were identified across the marine
geophysical survey area, which influenced the conduct of the survey and the
degree of confidence in the interpretation of the marine seismic data obtained.
Data quality was adversely affected by masking within, and close to, the base
of the Marine Deposits. EGS interpreted this
phenomenon as being caused by anaerobic decomposition of organic plant material
trapped during a recent inundation. The gas bubbles so generated absorb the
seismic energy, thereby preventing reflections from deeper horizons. In
such localities no marine seismic data could be collected. Such areas are
not uncommon around
12.6.65
It should be expected
that cultural objects such as shipwrecks present within the masked Marine
Deposits would lay closer to the surface of the stratum rather than the base,
and therefore may not have been affected by this phenomenon. In masked
areas, therefore the seismic assessment sub-seabed archaeological potential may
be limited. The bridge alignment crosses over these ‘masked’ areas only
for a few hundred metres off the western
12.6.66
Close to the old
12.6.67 In both the above “masked” areas side scan data was available which provided an indication of both surface and shallow submerged objects. However, the impact assessment may include scope to include a Watching Brief programme aimed at mitigating any potential impact from pile construction on any deeper cultural objects.
12.6.68 The spatial accuracy of the surveys varied and are summarised in Table 12-8:
Table 12-8 Survey accuracies of marine geophysical surveys
Accuracies |
EGS 2004 |
IGGE 2007 |
EGS 2009 |
Vertical |
+/- 0.15 m |
+/- 0.10 m |
+/- 0.15 m . |
Horizontal |
+/- 0.30 m |
+/- 2.0 m |
+/- 1.0 m |
12.6.69 Assessment of Marine Archaeological Potential
Assessment of Geophysical Data
12.6.69.1 Task 3 of the MAI includes an interpretation of the geophysical survey data as well as baseline sources and an establishment of the nature and extent of marine archaeological potential along the proposed alignment for the HZMB and where limited reclamation is to take place along the eastern edge of CLK.
12.6.69.2 For ease of understanding detailed descriptions of the bathymetry, seabed and stratigraphy have been separated into the following three sections (see Image 26 of Appendix 12E).
·
East of
·
Channel between Lantau
and
·
Waters west of Lantau
and
Relevant marine geophysics charts for this assessment are presented in Appendix 12F.
Bathymetry
12.6.69.3 The bathymetry in the vicinity of the seabed has been reviewed and is summarised below.
Area |
Bathymetry |
East of |
· At the eastern part of this
area the water depth close to the north coast of · The seabed is generally flat except in the channels. There is evidence of scouring, only slight, along the Lantau coast and along the channels. |
Channel Between
Lantau and Chek Lap Kok Isalnd and |
· Water depth in
this area varies from the extremely shallow waters of southern · Both shorelines are characterised by boulders, colluvium and rock outcrops along the southern shore and deposited as fill along the northern shore. For the remainder of the seabed in this area it is smooth in shape with the exception of the channel. |
West of Lantau and
|
· As can be expected the
shallowest part, minimum of –1.4 mPD recorded, of this survey area is along the shores of · The seabed in this area is generally smooth with the exception of boulders and rock outcrops close to the Lantau shoreline. |
Interpretation of Seabed
12.6.69.4 The seabed information in the vicinity has been reviewed and is summarised below.
Area |
Interpretation of Seabed |
East of |
· The seabed composition in this area is a mix of cohesive (silty) and granular sediments. A band of silty sediment in the centre of the area roughly corresponds with the dredged channel. This possibly indicates that the channel is silting up. · Extensive trawling has been observed in areas where the seabed is a mix of cohesive/granular to granular sediments. Along the north east coast of CLK the seabed is composed mostly of finer sediments. There are some relatively large debris fields to the east of the CLK Ferry Terminal, through which passes a Hutchison telecommunications cable. · A dredged channel runs
approximately through the centre of the area from the north east to the south
west. There is a higher density of dumped material close to the
reclaimed |
Channel Between
Lantau and Chek Lap Kok Isalnd and
|
· The composition of the seabed
in · The seabed in this area is
littered with debris, most of which may have been deposited during the
construction of |
Waters West of
Lantau and |
· The seabed composition in
this Survey Area is overwhelmingly silty with
patches of granular sediments close to the western |
Interpretation of Stratigraphy
12.6.69.5 EGS identified four broad geological successions in their 2004 survey. Of these, the two uppermost strata are relevant for this study. They are:-
· Marine deposits (deposited during Holocene, forming the seabed and immediate subsurface strata). Very soft to soft silty clay. Sometimes sandy at the base or near the shorelines. These deposits are between 8,000 to 10,000 years old. Immediately prior to this time the mean sea level was approximately 80 to 100m lower than the present level.
· Alluvium (Strata beneath the marine deposits, derived from terrestrial conditions during the late Pleistocene). Soft to firm silty, sandy clay to compact dense silty fine sand sometimes with gravel.
Area |
Interpretation of Stratigraphy |
East of |
At the interface
between the marine deposits and the alluvium – the pre-inundation palaeo-topography – there are 4 drainage channels where
surface run-off from Lantau drained down to the main river channel in |
Channel between Lantau and
|
Marine deposits
dip gently northwards across the airport channel towards |
Waters west of Lantau and |
Marine deposits thicken, -20.0 to -25.0m to the north and est. A pattern of palaeo-drainage has been cut into this surface, flowing generally to the north and west. |
Process of Evaluating Material and Anomalies of Marine Archaeological Potential
12.6.69.6 The areas and anomalies assessed to be of archaeological potential were determined by a combination of the following:-
Step 1 : |
The predicted type, extent and frequency of submerged cultural heritage within the study area (carried out in the Review). |
Step 2 : |
‘Targets’ or areas identified by the marine geophysical survey |
Step 3 : |
Examination of aerial photographs |
12.6.69.7 All three marine geophysical surveys supplied charts depicting seabed features interpreted from the side scan sonar data in .dgn, .dxf and .dwg formats. These files were opened in AutoCAD 2008. The EGS 2004 and IGGE 2005 reports were also accompanied by raw side scan sonar data. This data was presented in file formats particular to each company. EGS had supplied the programme with which to view the data. The IGGE raw side scan sonar data could not be viewed.
12.6.69.8 This situation was acceptable with respect to the assessment of archaeological potential as the proposed bridge alignment passes over a section of seabed where there was an overlap with EGS 2004 survey. With respect to the absence of the raw side scan sonar data from the EGS 2008 survey, no anomalies of archaeological potential were noted within the vicinity of the proposed bridge alignment as discerned from the relevant seabed features chart.
12.6.69.9 With respect to the EGS 2004 survey, records collected in the field were interpreted using the C-View system. The process was as follows:-
· Records were scrolled on the PC screen in ‘waterfall’ mode,
· The interpretation option allowed the following operations to be carried out:
- The screen could be stopped and started.
- Features can be defined and marked up in shaped or lined form.
- Features can be annotated.
- Interpreted records can be saved for subsequent plotting.
· On completion, the file was passed directly to the AutoCAD 2008 system for plotting.
12.6.69.10 The raw data collected using side scan sonar and seismic profiling was provided along with the C-View programme. Accompanying this information were maps of the interpreted seabed features and track plots of the side scan sonar and seismic profiling survey.
12.6.69.11 The selection of targets was carried out in the following process:-
· Using the detailed seabed feature plots provided, single objects, potential shipwrecks and small scatters of debris/dumped material within the study area were listed.
· The coordinates of the targets, in Hong Kong Metric Grid, were obtained from the AutoCAD files
· The seabed features were then overlaid with the side scan sonar track plots.
· Where the tracks passed over the listed anomalies, the track and fix numbers were noted.
· The track and fix numbers were matched with the corresponding .CVD files.
· These files were examined using C-View. Images were then obtained of the anomalies that appeared to have archaeological potential.
12.6.69.12 For this assessment it has been assumed that ‘dumped material’ is cultural in nature and represents relatively large areas of seabed which are covered with demolition material resulting from construction and the like, which has been deliberately discarded on the seabed from barges. ‘Debris’ represents a localised area of material, which may be cultural or possibly natural. If the former is the case, such material could have been accidentally (i.e shipwreck) or deliberately (ballast, rubbish from a single vessel), deposited.
12.6.69.13 The process outlined above was the same for buried anomalies. Such targets or anomalies as were found were to be presented in the seabed features plans.
12.6.69.14 In addition to viewing data
collected by EGS, aerial photographs of the study
area were also examined. The reasoning for this
was that it may have been possible, in the right conditions, to view submerged
cultural features in the very shallow waters east of CLK
Island and in Tung Chung Bay. Two aerial photo-mosaics covering the study
area were examined. The mosaics were based on 1973 and 2001 aerial
photographs (Lands Department, Hong Kong Government). It was however not
possible to discern the presence of any submerged cultural features because of
a number of reasons such as the angle of the sun shining on the water, wind
waves, and water clarity. While a potentially useful technique for shallow
water archaeological mapping, it would have required exceptional conditions for
photographs taken in the last 50 years for water clarity to be at a sufficient
level to allow for a successful examination and interpretation of the seabed to
the east of
Targets and Areas of Archaeological Potential
12.6.69.15 The surface anomalies – targets - represents identified potential cultural material requiring further evaluation (dive inspection). The targets presented in this section will be accompanied by their position, in HKMG, the closest track and fix numbers, the corresponding .CVD file and approximate water depths and additional comments (Table 12-9). Appendix 12G also provides additional information of these anomalies in the form of descriptions and side scan sonar images. The notation of the track and fix numbers were necessary for locating the image of the target in the C-View system. The water depths were estimated from the seabed contour maps from the EGS report.
Table 12-9 Surface Anomalies (Targets)
No. |
Type |
Easting |
Northing |
Track |
Fix |
.CVD file |
Depth (m) |
1 |
debris |
803013.0 |
815690.0 |
E35 |
42235 |
559 |
8.1 |
2 |
debris |
806470.44 |
815987.83 |
E119 |
31704 |
418 |
4-5 |
3 |
debris |
806483.94 |
816084.56 |
E120 |
31928 |
420 |
4-5 |
4 |
debris |
806549.6 |
816074.51 |
E121 |
32206 |
424 |
4-5 |
5 |
debris |
806560.9 |
816244.5 |
E123 |
32250 |
425 |
4-5 |
6 |
debris |
806576.4 |
816246.3 |
E123 |
32250 |
425 |
4-5 |
7 |
debris |
806494.7 |
816440.2 |
E123 |
32260 |
425 |
5-6 |
8 |
debris |
806476.6 |
816488.7 |
E123 |
32282 |
425 |
5-6 |
9 |
debris |
807600.5 |
817016.4 |
N83A |
16951 |
255 |
5 |
10 |
debris |
807600.4 |
817030.5 |
N83A |
16951 |
255 |
5 |
11 |
debris |
807621.4 |
817029.5 |
N18b |
16310 |
230 |
1-3 |
12 |
debris |
807679.7 |
817044.6 |
N18b |
16314 |
230 |
1-3 |
13 |
debris |
807701.5 |
817009.7 |
N18b |
16315 |
230 |
1-2 |
14 |
debris |
807735.7 |
817084.1 |
N24b or c |
14634 |
199 |
1-3 |
15 |
debris |
807801.9 |
817109.3 |
N24b or c |
14628 |
199 |
1-3 |
16 |
Unidentified object |
807841.8 |
817110.1 |
N24b or c |
14626 |
199 |
1-3 |
17 |
debris |
807978.4 |
817136.4 |
N83b or c |
16976 |
255 |
1-3 |
18 |
debris |
807983.5 |
817171.9 |
N84b or c |
21572 |
292 |
1-3 |
19 |
debris |
808076.76 |
817088.82 |
N17B |
16289 |
229 |
0-1 |
20 |
debris |
808756.7 |
817228.6 |
N24F |
14560 |
198 |
2-3 |
21 |
debris |
808950.4 |
817224.8 |
N24F |
14546 |
198 |
2-3 |
22 |
debris |
809003.5 |
817228.4 |
N24F |
14543 |
198 |
2-3 |
23 |
debris |
811642.8 |
817896.0 |
N103 |
8699 |
136 |
1-2 |
24 |
dumped material |
811906.3 |
817824.1 |
N38 |
6454 |
104 |
2 |
25 |
‘block’ |
811823.2 |
818000. 5 |
N106 |
9065 |
139 |
1-2 |
26 |
‘Unknown object’ |
811899.8 |
818366.0 |
N52 |
4845 |
87 |
0-1 |
12.6.69.16 The majority of the anomalies of archaeological potential are located in the western section of the bridge alignment (see Image 27 of Appendix 12E). They are mostly that of discrete patches of debris up to 40 m across.
12.6.69.17 The proposed bridge alignment enters HKSAR approximately 500 m to the south of a debris field composed of discrete relatively small patches of debris, one of which appears to be a recent wreck. Target 1 is a small patch of debris an otherwise ‘clean’ expanse of seabed. As can be expected the frequency of debris on the seabed off the west coast of Lantau decreases with distance from shore and the proposed bridge alignment passes through a small debris field about 700 m from shore.
12.6.69.18 At the western entrance to the Airport Channel the frequency of debris increases. Debris located on the southern shores of CLK, within the dredged channel or the lower slopes of the batters were not assessed as anomalies of archaeological potential as they were considered to have been deposited recently.
12.6.69.19 Though within the 300 m of the proposed
bridge alignment, there was no examination for potential anomalies beyond the
point where the bridge makes landfall on Lantau. This is because for the
most part debris and other seabed objects are located on the southern
12.6.69.20 There are a number of seabed anomalies north of where the proposed bridge alignment enters the waters to the east of CLK. One of these is a relatively large object, up to 6m in length, which is located close to the shoreline (Target 26).
12.6.69.21 No buried anomalies, potentially cultural in origin, were shown on the seabed feature maps provided. An examination of the Isopach maps also revealed that no buried anomalies were identified by EGS within the marine deposits and alluvium. However, as noted in 12.6.66, interpretation may be limited due to natural accumulations of organic gases close to the base of the Marine Deposit stratum or emissions of raw sewerage. These masked areas have been taken into consideration when assessing the need for a watching brief program.
12.6.69.22 The proposed bridge alignment crosses unreclaimed shorelines on Lantau. The seabed close to these crossing points were not able to be
surveyed because of the shallow waters and the dangers posed to expensive
equipment from partially submerged rocks. Furthermore such seabed types
make identification of cultural remains using side scan sonar images
difficult. In the absence of geophysical data the following
interpretation of marine archaeological potential is provided for the
near-shore areas along the
12.6.69.23 Seabeds close to shorelines are a rich source of archaeological information. Evidence associated with littoral activities such as, habitation (fishing villages) and industry are often found in the first 50 m offshore. Remains of maritime related structures such as jetties can also be found. Vessels striking hard objects such as shorelines mostly cause shipwrecks as a general rule. Shipwrecks can be found in the intertidal zone and in the first 50 m from shore.
12.6.69.24 The alignment also crosses a promontory
at the
12.6.69.25 The eastern side of the promontory forms a shallow embayment, which would have been more pronounced prior to 1995. This embayment would have been relatively well protected from all winds except those blowing from the northeast. It was well suited as an anchorage for small vessels. Vessels could have also been dragged ashore onto the beach on the southern part of the embayment. Cultural remains, such as jetties and material deposited from shore, associated with the Tang period could possibly be present close to the eastern and southern shores. Artefacts from the Neolithic period could also be present. Shipwrecks may also be present, the likelihood of their presence being more likely the result of piracy or warfare rather than adverse weather or poor navigation.
12.6.69.26 The proposed alignment also skirts around some of the unreclaimed shoreline of CLK. Archaeological evidence relating to occupation and industrial activities on the former island CLK dates back to Middle Neolithic period (7,000 B.P.). In later periods there was evidence of a Tang Dynasty lime kiln in the northern part of the island (Sham Wan Tsuen) and Yuan Dynasty kilns on the slopes of the sole surviving original hill landscape (Ha Law Wan) in the south east of the Island. Archaeological evidence associated with activities that have taken place on and in the immediate vicinity of CLK may be present along the rocky shoreline.
12.6.69.27 The archaeological potential of the unsurveyed near-shore areas described above suggest further “target” areas for field evaluation. These are identified in Image 27 of Appendix 12E as Transects.
12.6.69.28 The archaeological potential of
submerged terrestrial sites appears most favourable in Sha Lo Wan and
12.6.70 Impacts Evaluation
12.6.70.1 From the available information the most immediately obvious impacts of the proposed development would be the driving in of the footings into the seabed for the bridge. This will have the effect of destroying any sites or objects of cultural heritage, in the location where the footings will be placed.
12.6.70.2
The proposed
reclamation on the east coast of
12.6.71 Review and Requirement for Further Evaluation of Marine Archaeological Potential
12.6.71.1 In accordance with EIAO Technical Memorandum Annex 19 Clauses 2.6 to 2.9, an impact assessment is required to measure the effects of the development on sites of cultural heritage. The Baseline Review and the analysis of the marine geophyiscal survey data did not identify any sites of cultural heritage as defined by EIAO Technical Memorandum Annex 19 Clause 2.1 (See Appendix 12B). It was identified as follows:-
(a) The study area has potential for both prehistoric and historic period sites of cultural heritage.
(b) The marine geophysical survey found a number of anomalies on the seabed surface, within the shadow of the proposed bridge alignment, which may be cultural in nature and could possibly be shipwrecks. It cannot be determined from the interpretation of the survey whether these anomalies are sites/objects of significant cultural heritage. A field evaluation is therefore required.
(c) There is a possibility that some of the identified anomalies may be impacted by the installation of the footings of the proposed bridge. Any final impact evaluation will clearly depend on both field evaluation of the anomalies (above) and detailed footing design.
(d)
The seabed immediately
adjacent to the northern
(e)
The marine geophysical
team, because of physical constraints, could not survey the seabed immediately
adjacent to the northern
(f) The proposed bridge alignment for the most part traverses across areas, which are not optimum locations for settlement in a pre-inundation landscape. The exception to this is the ribbon of organic masking off the west coast of Lantau, which is suggestive of a possible former watercourse. There is a relatively higher likelihood of settlements having been formed close to such a feature.
(g) It is assessed that the narrowly confined and localised footprint of individual bridge piers will have a minimal likelihood of impacting a pre-inundation settlement buried under marine sediments.
(h) It is assessed that the relatively small parcels of reclamation proposed on the eastern shore of the CLK will have a minimal likelihood of impacting a pre-inundation settlement buried under marine sediments.
12.6.72 Results of Visual Diver Survey
12.6.72.1 To assess the cultural heritage significance of the surface anomalies identified from the marine geophysical survey and examine areas of archaeological potential a Visual Diver Survey (VDS) was undertaken.
12.6.72.2 All 26 targets listed in Table 12-10 were inspected during the VDS conducted in April 2009. The methodology for the VDS complies with the Guidelines for Marine Archaeological Investigation. Key procedures of the survey are:-
Pre-VDS preparation: |
Prior to the commencement of the VDS the coordinates of the targets were converted from Hong Kong Metric Grid (1980) to WGS 84.
|
Target location procedure: |
Using a Garmin GPS 76, the sampan was directed to the target and a. buoy was dropped when the reading on the GPS it was less than 5 m from the target and the accuracy of the GPS position at the time the buoy was dropped was recorded.
|
Seabed circular search:
|
Once the buoy was dropped over the target a diver was sent down the buoy line. The diver attached one end of a 12 m reel to the anchor/weight at the base of the buoy. The purpose of the 12 m line was to snag or catch any objects protruding from the seabed. The diver visually examined objects snagged by the survey line.
|
Post search de-brief :
|
Upon regaining the surface the diver was questioned on what he saw. The approximate dimensions and composition of objects were provided as well as their distance from the anchor/weight. A description of the seabed and water visibility was also provided. |
12.6.72.3 Most of the 26 targets inspected revealed only rock, modern brick and shell scatters. It was a feature of the targets inspected to the west and south of CLK that objects were encountered at about 0.15 m under soft silt. Water visibility did not exceed 0.5 m. Brief descriptions of the individual targets are presented in Table 12-10.
Table 12-10 Description of Surface Anomalies (Targets) from VDS
No. |
Description |
1 |
Scatter of shell |
2 |
Scatter of shell and a timber fragment recently deposited – part of interior fitting of a vessel |
3 |
Scatter of shell |
4 |
Scatter of shell |
5 |
Occasional shell |
6 |
Occasional shell |
7 |
Occasional shell |
8 |
Occasional shell |
9 |
Nothing found |
10 |
Nothing found |
11 |
Nothing found |
12 |
Nothing found |
13 |
Fishing line and small metal debris |
14 |
Rock, shell and modern plywood fragment |
15 |
Small concentrated scatter of rock |
16 |
Two rock fragments protruding from the seabed |
17 |
Nothing found |
18 |
Scatter of rock |
19 |
Irregular sand-waves |
20 |
Rock and shell scatter |
21 |
Dense concentration of shell and some rock |
22 |
Dense concentration of shell and some rock |
23 |
Large triton shell |
24 |
Concentration of modern brick, stone and fishing line |
25 |
1 x 2.5 x 1 m high steel ‘box’ or basin. |
26 |
4 x 2 x 1 m high bedrock (granite) outcrop. Square ferrous frame nearby. |
12.6.72.4 Nothing of interest was found in Targets 9 to 12 and 17 is likely due to the observation that low relief objects visible to side scan sonar may in fact not protrude above the seabed in areas where there is very fine silt. This would make the detection of such objects by divers difficult. It is also very likely that some of the objects detected by the side scan sonar may have been mobile, such as plastics and light fragments of wood and hence had disappeared by the time of the visual diver survey.
12.6.72.5 A diver following the shoreline at a depth of 1 to 2 m inspected the areas of archaeological potential along the unreclaimed eastern shore of CLK and the eastern side of the promontory upon which the archaeological site of Sha Lo Wan (W) was sited.
12.6.72.6 The transect along the shore of CLK was abandoned after a number of apparently abandoned fishing nets were encountered amongst rock outcrops in very low water visibility conditions. Nothing of cultural heritage significance was identified.
12.6.72.7 The seabed below the low tide mark along the eastern side of the promontory upon which the archaeological site of Sha Lo Wan (W) was sited was soft silt. This resulted in zero visibility conditions for the diver transect in this area. Nothing of cultural heritage significance was identified.
12.6.73 Assessment of Cultural Significance
12.6.73.1 The objects and artefacts identified during the VDS have no or minimal cultural significance.
12.6.74 Recommendations
12.6.74.1 Periodic monitoring at Sha Lo Wan (West) Archaeological Site is recommended. It is recommended to conduct inspection of the site every 3 months. Inspection record supplemented with site photos showing the condition of the overall archaeological site should be submitted to the AMO for record purpose.
Terrestrial Archaeology
12.7.1 All the bridge structure would totally avoid the Sha Lo Wan (West Archaeological Site) during both the construction and operational phases. Hence, there will be no direct impacts. Mitigation measures are not required and there are no residual impacts.
12.7.2 As a precautionary measure, periodic monitoring of construction works should be conducted to ensure the avoidance of any impacts on the Sha Lo Wan (West) Archaeological Site. Access to the said archaeological site for works area and storage of construction equipment is not allowed
Built Heritage
12.7.3 Two
temples, namely
12.7.4 As the alignment will span over the Sha Lo Wan west headland there will be no direct impacts on any graves within the area. As no pre-war graves were located and there are no indirect impacts. Mitigation measures are therefore not required.
Marine Archaeology
12.7.5 Diver Survey was undertaken and nothing of cultural heritage significance was identified. There is no need for any further investigation or mitigation measures.
12-1
Peacock, B.A.V. and Nixon, T.J.P. 1988
The
12-2 Chinese University of Hong Kong, 1991 Report of the Archaeological Survey of North Lantau 北大嶼山考古調查報告
12-3
Guangzhou Institute
of Cultural Relics and Archaeology, 1998 Second Territory-wide
archaeological survey of
12-4
Territory
Development Department, 1999 WP12 – Historical, Archaeological and Cultural
Heritage Impact Assessment (in CE 1/97. Remaining Development in Tung Chung and
Tai Ho. Comprehensive Feasibility Survey), Report No 501/22/B Prepared by Mott
Connell
12-5
Meacham, W (ed) 1994
12-6
12-7
Drewett, P L 1995 A Late Neolithic
Settlement at Sha Lo Wan,
12-8
Sun, T.W (2002 unpubl) Sha Tsui Tau, Tung Chung,
12-9 Drewett, P L 1996, ‘A Tang Settlement and Qing burial site.’ Prepared for the Antiquities & Monuments Office.
12-10 Tang Chung, Shang Ezhi Tan, Wong Wan Cheung, 1997 Archaeological excavation at Pak Mong, Kaogu. Vol 6, p54 – 64
12-11 Siu Kwok-kin 1964 ‘Tung Chung Fort’ Journal of the Hong Kong Branch of the Royal Asiatic Society, Vol 4, 1964, pp 146-150
12-12
Hong Kong Museum of
History and Siu Kwok-kin, 1990 Forts and
Batteries, Coastal defence in
12-13
A. Liu 1990 Forts
and Pirates,
12-14
Hydrographic Office,
12-15
Empson, H. 1992, Mapping
12-16
Sewell RJ, Kirk, 2002 PA Geology of Tung Chung and
12-17 Langford R L , et al 1995 Geology of Lantau District. GEO CED, HK.
12-18
12-19 Peacock, B.A.V. and Nixon, T.J.P.
1988 The
12-20 Zhue, F. 1984 ‘Several
problems related to the archaeology of Neolithic Guandong’,
in, Kwantung Provincial Museum 1984 Archaeological Finds from
Pre-Qin Sites in Guangdong ; presented by the
12-21
Fyfe, J. A., Shaw,
R., Campbell, K. W. Lai & P.A. Kirk, May 2000 The Quaternary Geology of
Hong Kong.
12-22
Day, C. A., 2001
12-23 Allen, P.M and Stephens, E.A 1971 Report on Geological Survey of
12-24 Brimicombe, A.J. 1986 4000-6000 years BP, A higher relative sea-level in
12-25
Meacham, W. 1984 Prehistoric occupation and coastal development in
12-26 Drewett, P. L. (1995) “A Late
Neolithic Settlement at Sha Lo Wan,
12-27
CEDD, May 2000
Tai O Sheltered Boat
12-28
12-29 Siu Kwok-kin 1986 The
Social condition of
12-30 Airport Authority, April 2002 Environmental Assessment Services for Permanent Aviation Fuel Facility: Environmental Impact Assessment Report. Prepared by Mouchel HK
12-31
Siu Kwok-kin and Siu
Kwok-kwan, 1988. Studies on the Po-an Region,
12-32
Neumann C F 1831 History of the Pirates who infested the
12-33
Siu Kwok-kin, 1982
Ching fortifications in
12-34 Glasspoole, R. 1810 “A narrative of my captivity and treatment amongst the Ladrones.” Appendix in Neumann, C. F. 1831
12-35
12-36
12-37
SDA Marine, 1998 Marine Archaeology
in
12-38 EGS (Asia) Limited, October 2004 Hong Kong Section of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge and Connection with the North Lantau Highway: Marine Geophysical and Hydrographic Surveys – Final report. Prepared for the Geotechnical Engineering Office.
12-39
IGGE (
12-40
EGS (