The Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance (Cap. 53) was enacted in 1976 and provides the statutory framework to provide for the preservation of objects of historical, archaeological and palaeontological interest.

The Ordinance contains the statutory procedures for the Declaration of Monuments. The proposed monument can be any place, building, site or structure, which is considered to be of public interest by reason of its historical, archaeological or palaeontological significance.

Under section 6 and subject to subsection (4) of the Ordinance, the following acts are prohibited in relation to certain monuments, except under permit;

· To excavate, carry on building works, plant or fell trees or deposit earth or refuse on or in a proposed monument or monument;

· To demolish, remove, obstruct, deface or interfere with a proposed monument or monument.

The discovery of an Antiquity, as defined in the Ordinance must be reported to the Authority, or a designated person. The Ordinance also provides that, the ownership of every relic discovered in Hong Kong after the commencement of this ordinance shall vest in the Government from the moment of discovery. The Authority on behalf of the government may disclaim ownership of the relic.

No archaeological excavation may be carried out by any person, other than the Authority, without a licence issued by the Authority. A licence will only be issued if the Authority is satisfied that the applicant has sufficient scientific training or experience to enable him to carry out the excavation and search satisfactorily, has sufficient staff and financial support.

15.1.2 Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance

The Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO) (Cap. 499) provides additional legislative protection to sites of cultural heritage, which are threatened by development and the Environmental Protection Department is its authority. The Technical Memorandum contains the guidelines and criteria for the assessment of sites of cultural heritage interest.

The CHIA will follow the Antiquities and Monuments Office Criteria for Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment and will fulfill the requirements as set out in Annex 10 and 19 of the Technical Memorandum on EIA Process (EIA Ordinance, Cap. 499, S.16).

15.2 Existing/Baseline Condition

15.2.1 Existing development

Many sections of the alignments are situated on existing roads and or/ existing or drainage channels currently under construction. The majority of the alignments are located outside the boundaries of the villages within the study area. The exception to this is the alignment located in Fan Tin Tsuen, San Tin. The majority of proposed pumping station sites are located on abandoned plots of land outside of the villages.

The specific existing impacts for each alignment will be given separately:

(a) Lau Fau San to Mong Tseng Tsuen;

· Lau Fau San Road

· Tin Wah Road

· Nullah running perpendicularly to Tin Wah Road

(b) San Tin to Ngau Tam Mei;

· Ka Lung Road (near Cassino Camp)

· Kwu Tung Road

· Village paths in San Tin

· Castle Peak Road (San Tin and Mai Po)

· Drainage channel access road between Yau Tam Mei and Nam Sang Wai

· Reclamations of former pond/marsh areas

Yuen Long South (Shap Pat Heung);

· Shan Ha Tsuen - Tin Tsuen drainage channel

· Kung Um Road - Nullah along Kung Um Road

· Sham Chung drainage channel (west of Tai Tong Road) -Nullah and access road

· Tai Tong Road (northern section) -Tai Tong Road

· Tai Shu Ha Road East - Nullah and road

Yuen Long Effluent Pipeline;

· Fuk Shun Street (Fung Lok Wai)

· Tin Wah Road (Tin Shui Wai)

15.2.2 Historical Background of the Study Area

Declared Monuments

The following Declared Monuments were identified in the Study Area;

Man Lun Fung Ancestral Hall (San Tin)

Graded Buildings

The following Graded buildings have been identified in the Study Area;

Ming Yuen Tong (San Tin) Grade II

Shun Yue Tong (San Tin) Grade I

San Yeh Man Tong (San Tin) Grade II

Historical Villages

Lau Fau Shan Road/ Mong Tseng Tsuen

The history of the Lau Fau San area can be traced back many centuries, as a centre of oyster cultivation (Morton 1983). The village today consists of a mixture of commercial/ market and domestic structures, many dating to the 1960’s and 70’s. No resources were recorded in the survey in Lau Fau Shan. Three villages in the study area were found to contain heritage resources, San Hing Wai, Chung Yuen and Mong Tseng Tsuen.

San Hing Tsuen

The village of San Hing Wai was settled by members of the Wong clan over 100 years ago. The villagers originally subsisted through the growing of vegetables and rice.

Chung Yuen

The settlement is associated with Sha Kong Wai and was settled by members of the Mok clan during the 19th century. The villagers originally grew rice and vegetables to support themselves.

Mong Tseng Tsuen

The village of Mong Tseng Tsuen is over two hundred years old. The families associated with it are the Cheng (from Yuen Long) and the Tang, Wong and Lee clans from the neighbouring village of Mong Tseng Wai. All of the villagers originally came from Po On. The villagers grew rice, sweet potatoes and peanuts. They also engaged in fishing. The small well at the edge of the village was abandoned a decade ago.

San Tin/ Mai Po

A number of historical villages were located along this alignment. The majority of them were located in San Tin.

San Tin

San Tin was originally settled by members of the Man clan during the 14th and 15th centuries. The area was originally considered marginal because of its marshy nature, but later became a rich agricultural area. San Tin consists of a cluster of villages, centred around Fan Tin Tsuen. The aerial photographs from this area, dating from 2001 (GEO CN30028), show that whilst there are still a number of ponds in the vicinity of the villages, a lot of former agricultural areas have been taken over by light industrial operations, see Figure 15.1.

Mai Po Tsuen

Mai Po Tsuen is a small village situated between Castle Peak Road and ponds. The Wong clan is the predominant clan of the village, whose members arrived in the area several hundred years ago, according to local informants. Their ancestral hall “Hin Hing Tong” (AAHB-230) is a modern building. The other clans associated with the village are the, Man, Fung and Chan. These clans share the same gods hall (AAHB-236). All of the settlers came to the area from Guangdong and were Punti. The villagers originally supported themselves through fishing and rice farming.

Shap Pat Heung

Thirteen historical villages were located along five alignments in this study area. The alignments were all essentially isolated rural settlements until fairly recent development. This process can be seen in two aerial photographs of the Shap Pat Heung area, dating from 1963 (GEO Y09481), 2002 (GEO CW41000), figures 15.2 and 15.3, respectively. Several villages in the photographs, e.g. Shui Tsui Lo Wai, Tin Liu Tsuen and Muk Kui Tsuen can also be seen to have contained traditional fung shui features, such as ponds and woods, none of which have survived. The aerial photographs also show that even as late as 1963, the land not occupied by buildings was agricultural in nature. The 2002 photograph shows former fields either overgrown or occupied by new structures.

Shan Ha Tsuen

The village of Shan Ha Tsuen was settled by members of the Cheung clan, of Punti origin from Guangdong, approximately 400 years ago. The village was given the name Shan Ha Tsuen, because that was the name of the village in Guangdong from which the settlers originated. The village originally had a moat and fish pond in front of it, both of which were filled in approximately 15 to 20 years ago. The village well, which has been preserved, has been out of use since 1979. The village also previously had a fung shui wood, which was cut down for road construction 15 years ago. There are two cannons placed at the front of the village, which local informants said were used for protection against thieves and the Japanese during the Second World War.

Tin Liu Tsuen

The village of Tin Liu Tsuen is a mixed surname Punti village whose inhabitants came to the area approximately 100 years ago. The inhabitants were members of the Wu, Wong, Yip and Sit clans. The villagers supported themselves through rice and vegetable farming.

Pak Sha Tsuen

Pak Sha Tsuen is a mixed surname village, whose original inhabitants were of Punti origin from Guangdong. The villagers originally grew vegetables and rice.

Muk Kui Tau Tsuen

The village of Muk Kiu Tsuen (‘head of wooden bridge’) was named after a wooden bridge that used to be situated in front of the village. The village was settled by members of the Wu and Chan clans, Punti from Guangdong.

Tai Tong Tsuen

Tai Tong Tsuen was settled by members of the Lee and Leung clans, of Punti origins. The villagers originally supported themselves through growing rice and vegetables, for subsistence as well as for sale at the market in Yuen long.

Wong Nai Tun Tsuen

This village has been occupied by members of the Ho, Yu and Lai families for five generations. The settlers were originally from Po On province and were of Hakka background. The villagers maintained a similar lifestyle to those of their neighbours in Tai Tong Tsuen, engaging in rice and vegetable cultivation. Collection of wood from the nearby hills was also undertaken by inhabitants of both of these villages.

Shui Tsiu San Tsuen

Shui Tsiu San Tsuen is a multi-clan village. The first arrivals were two families of the Wong clan, of Hakka origin. These were the original two houses in the settlement. Later, members of the Lam clan from Fujian arrived and after them, members of the Ching and Yeung and finally, the Cheung. The latter three groups moved here from Shui Tsui Lo Wai. The village originally had a fung shui wood which was cut down to make room for new houses. The villagers supported themselves through farming.

Sham Chung Tsuen

Sham Chung Tsuen is a Punti village. It was originally settled by members of the Chan clan, later members of the Kwan, Lam and Yip clans moved there. The villagers originally grew rice as a subsistence crop. The villagers also grew vegetables, which they sold at the Yuen Long market.

Shui Tsui Lo Wai

Shui Tsui Lo Wai is a multi-clan Hakka village. The clans associated with it are Kan, Cheung, Chan,Tse, Yeung and Lam. The villagers originally grew vegetables and sweet potatoes which were taken to Hong Kong Island and Yau Ma Tai for sale.

Hung Tso Tin

Hung Tso Tin was established by a father and son, named, Kan from Shui Tsui Lo Wai. They were Hakka. The village was named ‘Red Date Field Image’ by a fung shui master. The villagers originally grew vegetables for their own consumption as well as sale at Yuen Long market.

Cheng Chu Wai

Cheng Chu Wai was settled by members of the Chan and Tse clans. The village name means green brick village.

Nam Hang Tsuen

Nam Hang Tsuen was settled by members of the Cheung clan from the nearby village of Shui Tsui Lo Wai. This settlement dates almost as far back as Shui Tsui Lo Wai. The villagers supported themselves through rice and vegetable farming. The crops were eaten by the villagers and sold at Yuen Long market.

Tong Tau Po Tsuen

Tong Tau Po Tsuen was settled by members of the Cheung clan from Guangdong, who were Punti. The villagers originally grew rice which was sold at Yuen long market, but the practice was stopped approximately 20 years ago.

Fung Lok Wai

There are three villages located in this area, Tai Tseng Wai, Ng Uk Tsuen and Shing Ka Tsuen. Modern aerial photographs show the area around the villages to be built up.

Tai Tseng Wai

The village of Tai Tseng Wai was settled approximately 500 years ago. There are five surnames associated with the village; Cheng, Leung, Shing, Lam and Tang. All of the families came from Tai Peng, Tung Kwun in Guangdong. The Leung and Cheng families arrived first. The Shing, Lam and Tang arrived about 300 years ago. The people here supported themselves through fishing and farming in the area. Farming was abandoned approximately 20 years ago.

Shing Uk Tsuen

The village of Shing Uk Tsuen was settled approximately 400 years ago. It is a single family surname village, i.e. Shing. The families came from Guangdong province. The area behind the village was used to grow crops such as sweet potatoes and peanuts. Many of the men from the villages, traditionally worked abroad.

Ng Uk Tsuen

The village of Ng Uk Tsuen is a single surname village, Ng. The 1st generation ancestor was called Ng Hung Lan, who came from Nam Tau. The current generation is the 29th. The Ng family of Ng Uk Tsuen is related to the Shing family of Shing Uk Tsuen by marriage. The villagers supported themselves through farming rice, in rented fields and through fishing and catching crabs in Deep Bay.

15.2.3 Geological and topographical background

Lau Fau San/ Mong Tseng Trunk Sewage

The pumping station and alignments run on Pleistocene terraced and Holocene alluvium in Mong Tseng. The main geology is schistose fine to medium granite. Pleistocene terraced alluvium extends to Lau Fau San where the main geology is fine to medium granite.

Yuen Long Effluent Pipe

The proposed alignment starts at the proposed Yuen Long Sewage Treatment Works Pumping Station, which is situated on 1980’s reclamation. The alignment then proceeds on Pleistocene terraced alluvium and debris flow deposits. The lower hill slopes of Wang Chau consist of metasiltstone and phylite with metasandstone. The alignment will then continue on the reclaimed marine muds of Tin Shui Wai. North of Tung Tau the alignment will impact on Pleistocene terraced alluvium. The last stretch to the San Wai Sewage Treatment Works Upgrading runs on Pleistocene debris flow deposits and two outcrops of adasite with tuffs and tuffites connected to block bearing tuff and tuffites.

Ngau Tam Mei/ San Tin Trunk Sewerage

The alignment starts on marine muds and continues on to reclaimed land. Where the alignment meets Castle Peak Road, the geology comprises estuarine deposits. The alignment branch, which extends to the east into the Ngau Tam Mei area is located on Holocene alluvium. The alignment, which goes to the north and follows Castle Peak road, is situated on both estuarine deposits and Holocene alluvium. Near the Mai Po archaeological site, the alignment runs on filled land. The remainder of the alignment, i.e. both sections running north and south near San Tin are situated on a mix of solid geology of coarse ash crystal tuffs and Pleistocene debris flow deposits.

Yuen Long South Branch Sewer

The sewer alignments and proposed pumping station locations are located on Pleistocene terraces and Holocene alluvium.

15.2.4 Landform Background of the Study Area

As informed by DSD/SP, there is no existing sewer in the existing site. The design of the gravity sewers and rising mains have been located away from the existing DSD's stormwater drains, nullah and box culverts. Therefore, there will be no impact on the existing DSD’s facilities.

The following major impacts to the original landforms occur in the Study Areas:

· Ponds;

· Utilities;

· Road cutting; and

· Nullah.

The following tables show the types of impacts, which can be found for each works area:

Lau Fau San/ Mong Tseng Trunk Sewage

Mong Tseng Tsuen PS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	5.5m PD, open area in front of rural village; Pleistocene terraced alluvium
Water Supplies Department	No impacts
CLP Power	CLP alignment within the proposed pumping station area
PCCW	telephone cable runs along southern edge of proposed pumping station
Towngas	No impacts

Sewer alignment from Mong Tseng to Lau Fau Shan Road	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	on a track along ponds and continuing along the nullah and crossing over an area of former ponds (geology map) to the Tin Wah Road
WSD	water mains are located along the nullah
CLP Power	CLP alignment impacts partly on track and partly on the area of former ponds
PCCW	telephone cable follows the track and crosses the areas of former ponds
Towngas	pipe crosses the former pond area

Sewer alignment along Lau Fau Shan Road	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	on Lau Fau Shan Road
WSD	water mains are located on both sides of the Lau Fau Shan Road and Deep Bay Road leading to the Lau Fau Shan PS
CLP Power	CLP alignment runs along both sides of the Lau Fau Shan Road and on the western edge of Deep Bay Road
PCCW	telephone cable runs along both sides of the Lau Fau Shan Road and on the western edge of Deep Bay Road
Towngas	gas pipe runs along the northern edge of Lau Fau Shan Road

Lau Fau Shan PS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	5.3m PD; in open space area to west of Deep Bay Road, western half shows artificially cutting (CLP map); border of Pleistocene terraced alluvium and marine sediments
WSD	water mains cross the proposed pumping station on its eastern half
CLP Power	CLP alignment crosses on the western edge of Deep Bay Road
PCCW	telephone cable crosses on the western edge of Deep Bay Road
Towngas	no impacts

Yuen Long Effluent Pipe

YLEPS	Areas of impacts
general description	1982 Reclamation
Water Supplies Department	no impacts
CLP Power	no impacts
PCCW	no impacts
Hutchison Global Crossing	no impacts

Sewer alignment from YLEPS to Wang Chau	Areas of impacts
general description	3.5 to 5.4m PD.; Sewer alignment runs firstly on reclamation after which it follows the road between the historic villages of Tai Tseng Ng Uk Tsuen, Tai Tseng Wai and Shing Uk Tsuen; Pleistocene terraced alluvium and debris flow deposits
WSD	water mains follow the road
CLP Power	no impacts
PCCW	impacts on most parts of the road
Hutchison Global Crossing	no impacts

Sewer alignment on Wang Chau	Areas of impacts
general description	Between 36 and 20m PD.; relatively undisturbed patches of lower hill slopes; metasiltstone and phylite with meta sandstone
WSD	no impacts
CLP Power	no impacts
PCCW	no impacts
Hutchison Global Crossing	no impacts

Sewer alignment from Wang Chau across Tin Shui Wai to Tung Tau Tsuen	Areas of impacts
general description	Reclaimed former marine muds
WSD	water mains follow the proposed alignment
CLP Power	no impacts
PCCW	cable follows proposed alignment
Hutchison Global Crossing	cable follows proposed alignment

Sewer alignment north of Tung Tau Tsuen	Areas of impacts
general description	Approximately 5m. PD.; north of a hillock; open storage areas and temporary structures; Pleistocene terraced alluvium; part of the alignment falls within the Tung Tau Tsuen Archaeological boundary site.
WSD	no impacts
CLP Power	part impacts near the temporary structures
PCCW	part impacts near the temporary structures
Towngas	no impacts

Sewer alignment from north of Tung Tau Tsuen to San Wai STW Upgrading	Areas of impacts
general description	Approximately 10m PD.; open storage areas temporary structures; wet and low-lying area
WSD	no impacts
CLP Power	part impacts on the proposed alignment
PCCW	no major impacts
Towngas	no impacts

San Wai STW Upgrading	Area of impacts
general description	Below 10m PD.; container storage areas, but mainly situated on pond area (to north of existing plant); proposed works fall within the archaeological site boundary
WSD	existing plant
CLP Power	no impacts
PCCW	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts

Ngau Tam Mei/ San Tin Trunk Sewerage

Sewer alignment from Kam Tin River to Ngau Tam Mei SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	on area of former ponds and estuarine sediments
WSD	no impacts
CLP Power	no impacts
Hutchison Global Crossing	no impacts
Cable TV	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts
Warf New T&T	no impacts

Ngau Tam Mei SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	on area of former ponds and estuarine sediments
WSD	no impacts
CLP Power	no impacts
Hutchison Global Crossing	no impacts
Cable TV	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts
Warf New T&T	no impacts

Sewer alignment from Ngau Tam Mei SPS to Tam Mei Camp SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	the sewer alignment crosses San Tam Road and then runs immediately along a channel currently under construction by TTD; the area consists of ponds or river channel
WSD	the sewer alignment will follow the water mains in this area
CPL Power	no impacts
Hutchison Global Crossing	no impacts
Cable TV	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts
Warf New T&T	no impacts

Tam Mei Camp SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	within the river channel and its immediate riverbank to the south
WSD	no impacts
CLP Power	no impacts
Hutchison Global Crossing	no impacts
Cable TV	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts
Warf New T&T	no impacts

Sewer alignment from Ngau Tam Mei SPS to San Tin SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	entirely on Castle Peak Road
WSD	the sewer alignment will follow the water mains in this area
CLP Power	Existing (and proposed) cable follows the sewer alignment starting approximately opposite the Maple Gardens and continues until opposite the Mai Po Village area; the cable continues to run parallel with the sewer alignment from Mai Po San Tsuen until the alignment leaves Castle Peak Road
Hutchison Global Crossing	plant follows the proposed sewer alignment along Castle Peak Road
Cable TV	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts
Warf New T&T	cable runs along proposed sewer alignment on Castle Peak Road starting approximately opposite a fly-over crossing the Yuen Long Highway before the village of Tsing Lung Tsuen

San Tin SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	on former marine sediments
WSD	water mains border the proposed pumping station
CLP Power	no impacts of existing cable; proposed cable will be located at southern end of proposed pumping station
Hutchison Global Crossing	no impacts
Cable TV	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts
Warf New T&T	no impacts

Sewer alignment from San Tin SPS to San Lung Tsuen SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	continues on Castle Peak Road and then turns north along the lower slopes of hillock to the debris flow deposits on which the historic village of San Tin was built
WSD	the sewer alignment will follow the water mains in this area
CLP Power	cable runs same alignment on Castle Peak road as proposed sewer alignment; further no impacts
Hutchison Global Crossing	plant follows the proposed sewer alignment along Castle Peak Road; no impacts
Cable TV	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts
Warf New T&T	cable runs along the Castle Peak Road

Fan Tin Tsuen SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	Maximum of 3m PD; Pleistocene debris flow deposits
WSD	the proposed pumping station will include existing water mains
CLP Power	no impacts
Hutchison Global Crossing	no impacts
Cable TV	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts
Warf New T&T	no impacts

Sewer alignment from San Lung Tsuen SPS to Casino Line SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	the alignment continues on Castle Peak Road and turns off southeast on Kwu Tung Road and Ka Lung Road until it reaches the existing sewerage plant
WSD	the sewer alignment will follow the water mains in this area
CLP Power	the only impacts are located on Castle Peak Road
Hutchison Global Crossing	no impacts
Cable TV	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts
Warf New T&T	no impacts

Cassino Line SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	within existing sewage treatment plant
WSD	connects with military main and continues to the existing sewage treatment plant
CLP Power	no impacts
Hutchison Global Crossing	no impacts
Cable TV	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts
Warf New T&T	no impacts

Yuen Long South Branch Sewer

Shan Ha Tsuen SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	9.3m PD; open space area in front of Shan Ha Tsuen Village
WSD	no impacts
CLP Power	cables are located on the eastern edge of the proposed pumping station
PCCW	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts

Sewer alignment connected to Sha Ha Tsuen SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	sewer alignment crosses alluvial plain to the river; then continues following the river to the north; the alignment subsequently follows the artificial cut of the Yuen Long Highway up to Kung Um Road
WSD	no impacts
CLP Power	no impacts
PCCW	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts

Alternative Sewer alignment connected to Sha Ha Tsuen SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	sewer alignment crosses alluvial plain to the river; then continues following the river to the north; the alignment subsequently crosses Yuen long Highway and continues east along an area occupied with structures
WSD	partial impact by existing water mains
CLP Power	partial impact by CLP cables
PCCW	partial impact by telephone cables
Towngas	no impacts

Muk Kiu Tau Tsuen SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	7.9m PD; open space area to the north of historic village of Muk Kiu Tau Tsuen; Pleistocene alluvial terrace
WSD	no impacts
CLP Power	cable is located at the western edge of the proposed pumping station
PCCW	cable runs along western edge of proposed pumping station
Towngas	no impacts

Sewer alignment extending north of Muk Kiu Tau Tsuen SPS and extending south towards Pak Sha Tsuen SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	one sewer branch alignment extends north to the Yuen Long Highway along an existing nullah; another branch extends south along same nullah to the Pak Sha Tsuen SPS
WSD	existing water mains located at proposed sewer alignment
CLP Power	cable along the proposed sewer alignment and stops just south of Muk Kiu Tau Tsuen
PCCW	cable located at proposed sewer alignment
Towngas	no impacts

Pak Sha Tsuen SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	12.3m PD; located to the north of the historical village of Pak Sha Tsuen; Pleistocene terraced alluvium
WSD	no impacts
CLP Power	no impacts
PCCW	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts

Sewer alignment extending south from Pak Sha Tsuen SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	sewer alignment runs south along an existing nullah
WSD	existing water mains located at proposed sewer alignment
CLP Power	cable located along proposed sewer alignment
PCCW	cable located along proposed sewer alignment
Towngas	no impacts

Sham Chung Tsuen SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	8.9m PD; Holocene alluvium
WSD	no impacts
CLP Power	no impacts
PCCW	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts

Sewer alignment extending north of Sham Chung Tsuen SPS and between the above station and Shui Tsiu San Tsuen SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	sewer alignment extending north of the proposed pumping station following a river; the alignment continues to follow the river south to the proposed Shui Tsiu San Tsuen SPS
WSD	no impacts
CLP Power	no impacts
PCCW	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts

Shui Tsiu San Tsuen SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	located in a former pond (PCCW map)
WSD	no impacts
CLP Power	no impacts
PCCW	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts

Sewer alignment extending south of Shui Tsiu San Tsuen SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	alignment continues to follow the river
WSD	no impacts
CLP Power	no impacts
PCCW	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts

Tai Tong Road Sewer alignment	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	sewer alignment located along Tai Tong Road
WSD	existing water mains are located at proposed sewer alignment
CLP Power	two smaller areas of impact at the southern end of this alignment
PCCW	cable located at proposed sewer alignment
Towngas	no impacts

Shung Ching San Tsuen SPS along Tai Tong Road	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	9.2m PD; open space area; Pleistocene terraced alluvium
WSD	no impacts
CLP Power	no impacts
PCCW	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts

Tai Shui Ha Road Sewer alignment	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	sewer alignment runs along an existing nullah
WSD	water mains are located along proposed alignment
CLP Power	impacts occur from Nga Yiu Tau SPS to the same height as split of nullah towards the south
PCCW	cable located at proposed sewer alignment
Towngas	no impacts

Nga Yiu Tau SPS	Extent and nature of impacts
General description	approximately 12.3m PD (nearest indication of PD height) ; open space with building located in center of proposed pumping station; Holocene alluvium
WSD	no impact
CLP Power	cable runs through proposed pumping station (east-west direction)
PCCW	no impacts
Towngas	no impacts

15.2.5 Archaeological background of the study area

The proposed works, except for Tung Tau Tsuen will not impact directly on a known archaeological site (AMO-files). Known archaeological sites, however, can be found in the vicinity of the works and are briefly described below. The works at Tung Tau Tsuen will partly impact within the boundary of the known archaeological site, field evaluation will identify the nature of the archaeological deposits.

Lau Fau San/ Mong Tseng Trunk Sewage

· Mong Tseng (Neolithic, Bronze and Historical Period)

· Lau Fau San (Neolithic and Bronze period)

Yuen Long Effluent Pipe

· Tung Tau Tsuen Archaeological Site: Ming and Qing Dynasty findings and a Song Dynasty sherd (AMO-files); The boundary of the archaeological site is marked on Figure 15.45.

· Tseung Kong Wai So Kwun Tsai Archaeological Site: Finding dating to Late Neolithic, Bronze Age and Song Dynasty have been recovered (AMO-files).

Ngau Tam Mei/ San Tin Trunk Sewerage

· Mai Po (Historical Period)

· Ngau Tam Mei Tsuen South, Sun Hing Farm (Bronze and Historical Period)

Yuen Long South Branch Sewer

· Yuen Leng, Kong Tau Tsuen (Bronze Period)

15.3 Assessment Methodology for Construction Phase

15.3.1 Assessment Approach for Built Heritage

The assessment methodology for the construction phase will include impacts arising from the proposed alignments as well as the proposed pumping stations. The following assessment methodology was used:

1) A desk-based study was conducted to determine the presence of historical occupation of the study area and to assess the potential for built heritage resources to still be present. The study included information gathered from the following sources; the Antiquities and Monuments Office published and unpublished papers and studies; publications on relevant historical, anthropological and other cultural studies; unpublished archival, papers, records; collections and libraries of tertiary institutions; historical documents which can be found in Public Records Office, Lands Registry, District Lands Office, District Office, Museum of History; cartographic and pictorial documentation.

2) A field survey was conducted in all areas where built heritage potential was established and existing information was not conclusive for purposes of the assessment. The scope of the survey covered the study corridor as well as areas within close proximity to it, which was defined as being a distance of 100 metres on either side. The heritage features included in the survey consisted of the following:

· Built features (excluding graves) constructed prior to 1950

· Built features constructed post 1950, but deemed to possess cultural or historical significance

· Clan graves dating prior to the Second World War

· Cultural landscape features, such as fung shui woods or ponds

· Historical landscape features, such as agricultural field patterns, terraces, paths and trackways and ponds

The field survey incorporated the following methodology:

Built Features

The survey consisted of a field evaluation incorporating the collection of photographic, oral and written information, on the architecture and history of all structures that may be impacted by the proposed works. This information was hand recorded in the field. The information collected in the field survey was then entered onto type written forms for inclusion in the report. The design of the forms is based on AMO and ICOMOS (International Charter for the Conservation and Restoration of Monuments and Sites) standards for the recording of historical resources with modifications to suit architectural styles and situations encountered in Hong Kong. The forms have also been designed to provide details of all identified resources, including written descriptions of each recorded feature, including; age, details of architectural features, condition, past and present uses, an architectural appraisal, notes on any modifications, direction faced and associations with historical/ cultural events or individuals. They also include a photographic record of each building or structure including the exterior (the elevations of all faces of the building premises, the roof, close up for special architectural details) and the interior (special architectural details) where possible, as well as the surroundings of the feature. The location of each feature has also been highlighted on a 1:1000 scale map. A description of the surrounding environment has also been included as part of the survey.

Graves

Pre-war clan graves were also included as part of the survey and were recorded on field recording forms, which include a written description, a photographic record, a copy of the inscription and the dimensions. Their locations have also been highlighted on a 1:1000 scale map. It should be noted that there are graves located within the Cassino Camp itself, which were not accessible as part of the survey. The graves lie a minimum distance of 10 metres from the works area, however and are separated from it by a chain link fence. There will be no impact to these graves and further investigation will not be necessary.

Cultural and Historical Landscape Features

A written description of each recorded feature has been made, including information gathered from interviews with local informants. The location of each recorded feature has been highlighted on a 1:1000 scale map and a photographic record of each identified feature made.

15.3.2 Assessment Approach for Archaeology

Desk-based research is undertaken to identify areas of original landform with archaeological potential, which have not been impacted by previous excavations. The desk-based research will also highlight known archaeological sites both within the proposed works areas and in the vicinity.

The identified areas of potential will be assessed by a field evaluation programme; comprising of field scan, auger testing programme and test pit excavations. The field evaluation programme will be endorsed by the Antiquity Authorities.

Identified areas of archaeological potential currently inaccessible due to concrete or asphalt cover or private land issues will have to be assessed after land resumption or during a programme of archaeological monitoring during the construction phase.

15.4 Results of the desk-based Study

15.4.1 Built Heritage (Baseline)

The baseline study confirmed that the Study area contained historical potential and that there was not sufficient information available to assess the potential impacts from the proposed works, therefore a field survey was carried out, the results of which are presented in Section 15.3.4.

15.4.2 Archaeology

The table below presents the results of the desk-based study in which the areas of archaeological potential were identified. Please note that no assessment was undertaken for the Yuen Long sewage treatment works effluent pipeline, Conforming scheme of 2A-IT as shown on Figure 1.4 as it is not the preferred option. An Impact Assessment for archaeology should be undertaken if this alignment is chosen.

Lau Fau San/ Mong Tseng Trunk Sewage

Mong Tseng Tsuen PS	archaeological potential of landform and relatively undisturbed
Sewer alignment from Mong Tseng to Lau Fau Shan Road	no archaeological potential (cumulative impacts of utilities; along existing nullah; area of former ponds)
Sewer alignment along Lau Fau Shan Road	no archaeological potential (road with cumulative impacts of utilities)
Lau Fau Shan PS	no archaeological potential (cumulative impacts of utilities and cutting)

Yuen Long Effluent Pipe

Works areas	Archaeological potential
YLEPS	no archaeological potential [former pond area]
Sewer alignment from YLEPS to Wang Chau	no archaeological potential [reclamation] except for the portion of the road which runs in between the historical villages
Sewer alignment on Wang Chau	some portions of the lower hill slopes appear relatively undisturbed and have archaeological potential
Sewer alignment from Wang Chau across Tin Shui Wai to Tung Tau Tsuen	no archaeological potential [reclamation]
Sewer alignment north of Tung Tau Tsuen	Although believed to be low in archaeological potential due to the low-lying nature of the area, part of the alignment will fall within the boundary of the Tung Tau Archaeological Site and requires therefore further testing
Sewer alignment from north of Tung Tau Tsuen to San Wai STW Upgrading	no archaeological potential [low-lying-wet area]
San Wai STW Upgrading	Although the proposed works will impact inside the boundary of the Tseung Kong Wai So Kwun Tsai Archaeological Site, the works will impact on ponds and has therefore no longer archaeological potential

Ngau Tam Mei/ San Tin Trunk Sewerage

Sewer alignment from Kam Tin River to Ngau Tam Mei SPS	no archaeological potential (former ponds and estuarine sediments)
Ngau Tam Mei SPS	no archaeological potential (former ponds and estuarine sediments)
Sewer alignment from Ngau Tam Mei SPS to Tam Mei Camp SPS	no archaeological potential (river meandering and ponds)
Tam Mei Camp SPS	no archaeological potential (river meandering)
Sewer alignment from Ngau Tam Mei SPS to San Tin SPS	no archaeological potential (road with cumulative impacts of utilities)
San Tin SPS	no archaeological potential (marine sediments)
Sewer alignment from San Tin SPS to San Lung Tsuen SPS	no archaeological potential (road and cumulative utilities impact)
Fan Tin Tsuen SPS	no archaeological potential (low-lying and existing water mains impacts)
Sewer alignment from San Lung Tsuen SPS to Casino Line SPS	no archaeological potential (road alignment and cumulative impacts of utilities)
Cassino Line SPS	no archaeological potential within existing sewerage treatment plant

Yuen Long South Branch Sewer

Shan Ha Tsuen SPS	archaeological potential of landform and relatively undisturbed
Sewer alignment connected to Sha Ha Tsuen SPS	no archaeological potential (floodplain; meandering river and road cutting)
Alternative Sewer alignment connected to Sha Ha Tsuen SPS	no archaeological potential (floodplain; meandering river and area of housing)
Muk Kiu Tau Tsuen SPS	archaeological potential of landform and relatively undisturbed
Sewer alignment extending north of Muk Kiu Tau Tsuen SPS and extending south towards Pak Sha Tsuen SPS	no archaeological potential (along existing nullah with cumulative impacts of utilities)
Pak Sha Tsuen SPS	archaeological potential of landform and relatively undisturbed
Sewer alignment extending south from Pak Sha Tsuen SPS	no archaeological potential (along existing nullah with cumulative impacts of utilities)
Sham Chung Tsuen SPS	no archaeological potential (Holocene alluvium)
Sewer alignment extending north of Sham Chung Tsuen SPS and between the above station and Shui Tsiu San Tsuen SPS	no archaeological potential (river meandering)
Shui Tsiu San Tsuen SPS	no archaeological potential (former pond area)
Sewer alignment extending south of Shui Tsiu San Tsuen SPS	no archaeological potential (river meandering)
Tai Tong Road Sewer alignment	no archaeological potential (cumulative impacts of road and utilities)
Shung Ching San Tsuen SPS along Tai Tong Road	archaeological potential of landform and relatively undisturbed
Tai Shui Ha Road Sewer alignment	no archaeological potential (cumulative impacts of road construction and utilities )
Nga Yiu Tau SPS	no archaeological potential (Holocene alluvium)

The information was presented to the Antiquities and Monuments Office and on the basis of this information the methodology was agreed. The table below shows the endorsed methodology.

Lau Fau San/ Mong Tseng Trunk Sewage

Works areas	Proposed methodology
Mong Tseng Tsuen PS (Figure 15.44)	Field scan Minimum of 10 auger hole tests One test pit excavation
Sewer alignment from Mong Tseng to Lau Fau Shan Road	no action required
Sewer alignment along Lau Fau Shan Road	no action required
Lau Fau Shan PS	no action required

Yuen Long Effluent Pipe

Works areas	Proposed methodology
YLEPS	no action required
Sewer alignment from YLEPS to Wang Chau	no action required at this stage; Archaeological monitoring of the excavation works near the historical villages will be required.
Sewer alignment on Wang Chau (Figure 15.43)	Field scan of the entire area a minimum of 20 auger hole tests Two test pits
Sewer alignment from Wang Chau across Tin Shui Wai to Tung Tau Tsuen	no action required
Sewer alignment north of Tung Tau Tsuen (Figure 15.45)	Field scan of the entire area a minimum of 20 auger hole tests Two test pits (currently occupied by villager and landowner issues may arise)
Sewer alignment from north of Tung Tau Tsuen to San Wai STW Upgrading	no action required
San Wai STW Upgrading	no action required

Ngau Tam Mei/ San Tin Trunk Sewerage

Works areas	Proposed methodology
Sewer alignment form Kam Tin River to Ngau Tam Mei SPS	No action required
Ngau Tam Mei SPS	no action required
Sewer alignment from Ngau Tam Mei SPS to Tam Mei Camp SPS	no action required
Tam Mei Camp SPS	no action required
Sewer alignment from Ngau Tam Mei SPS to San Tin SPS	no action required
San Tin SPS	no action required
Sewer alignment from San Tin SPS to San Lung Tsuen SPS	no action required
Fan Tin Tsuen SPS	no action required
Sewer alignment from San Lung Tsuen SPS to Casino Line SPS	no action required
Cassino Line SPS	no action required

Yuen Long South Branch Sewer

Works areas	Proposed methodology
Shan Ha Tsuen SPS (Figure 15.46)	Field scan Minimum of 10 auger hole tests One test pit excavation
Sewer alignment connected to Sha Ha Tsuen SPS	no action required
Alternative Sewer alignment connected to Sha Ha Tsuen SPS	no action required
Muk Kiu Tau Tsuen SPS	no action required
Sewer alignment extending north of Muk Kiu Tau Tsuen SPS and extending south towards Pak Sha Tsuen SPS	no action required
Pak Sha Tsuen SPS	no action required
Sewer alignment extending south from Pak Sha Tsuen SPS	no action required
Sham Chung Tsuen SPS	no action required
Sewer alignment extending north of Sham Chung Tsuen SPS and between the above station and Shui Tsiu San Tsuen SPS	no action required
Shui Tsiu San Tsuen SPS	no action required
Sewer alignment extending south of Shui Tsiu San Tsuen SPS	no action required
Tai Tong Road Sewer alignment	no action required
Shung Ching San Tsuen SPS along Tai Tong Road (Figure 15.47)	Field scan Minimum of 10 auger hole tests One test pit excavation
Tai Shui Ha Road Sewer alignment	no action required
Nga Yiu Tau SPS	no action required

15.5 Results of Built Heritage Survey (Construction Phase)

15.5.1 Built Features

A large number of resources were identified in the field survey. The information for each structure recorded in the field survey has been put into table form and can be found in Appendix 15.1. The majority of the structures were located within the boundaries of historical villages. As part of the field survey, the setting and surroundings of each village was noted, the information that was gathered is presented below. The figure number corresponding to the map illustrating the location of each of the recorded resources is also provided in the text.

Lau Fau Shan Road/ Mong Tseng Tsuen

(a)San Hing Wai (Figure 15.4)

The village is set facing Lau Fau Shan Road and is situated at the base of and on lower hill slopes rising eastwards. The village is currently backed by a lychee orchard. Today the village consists of a mixture of historical and modern buildings. Replacement of older buildings is ongoing as was evidenced by construction works noted during this field survey. The village paths and domestic drainage outlets are concrete, but in places the original stone features could be seen to have simply been covered by concrete rather than replaced. The majority of the recorded houses were either in use as residences or being used for holding a family shrine or for general storage. The predominant type of recorded structures were green brick courtyard style terrace houses. The majority of these houses were relatively unaltered on their exteriors and still had decorative canopies over their entranceways. The bricks in the structures were for the most part a uniform pale green to grey colour and long and narrow in shape. There was no standard bonding pattern noticeable.

(b) Chung Yuen(Figure 15.5)

Chung Yuen consists of a small number of houses to the west of Sha Kong Wai village. It consists mainly of modern village housing. The only historical structures are a green brick terrace row and single end terrace unit.

The village of Sha Kong Wai did not fall within the study area. There was, however, a Tin Hau temple associated with the village, located about 100 metres to its east that did fall within the study area. The temple and its associated shrine can be found on Figure 15.6. A recently constructed Kwun Yum statue was also located nearby and it can be found on Figure 15.7

Mong Tseng Tsuen is located on a hill slope and contained examples of stone terracing, especially at the rear of the village leading up to a fung shui wood. Twenty-two of the twenty-five recorded features were green brick courtyard terrace units. Four of these structures were ruins. The remaining structures were for the most part abandoned or being used for storage. Stone lined drains were still in use parts of the village, although concrete drains were also present.

San Tin / Mai Po

(a) San Tin (Figure 15.9)

Three villages fell within the study area for the project, San Lung, Tsuen, on Lung Tsuen and Fan Tin Tsuen. The latter is the centre of the settlement and contains a number of culturally important buildings, including a Declared Monuments, Man Lun Fung Ancestral Hall. The surveyed villages also contained a number of other historical buildings, although the majority of older buildings have been replaced by modern villages blocks. The majority of these structures were courtyard terrace style green brick houses. A number of these houses were inhabited. Many of the green brick units also had stone elements integrated into their structures, i.e. courses of cut granite along the lower portions of their walls, granite corner stones and carved door and gate frames, threshold stones and lintels.

(b) Mai Po Tsuen (Figure 15.10)

The majority of the houses in the village are modern, with only six historical houses found to still be standing. These houses were all green brick courtyard style terrace units. Their condition was generally poor with no evidence of regular maintenance. The bricks ranged from green to grey to pale brown. Bricks in several of the structures were heavily eroded. The local inhabitants informed that they refer to the entire village as Mai Po Tsuen, even though they are given two names on the 1:1000 scale map, i.e. Mai Po Lo Wai and Mai Po San Tsuen. The Yeung Hau Kung temple (AAHB-227) is also found on this figure.

Yau Mei San Tsuen is not an historical village having been settled post 1950. The shrine associated with the village was reconstructed in 1975.

Shap Pat Heung

(a) Shan Ha Tsuen (Figure 15.12)

The village contains a large number of historical buildings, including domestic structures and study halls (each branch of the clan has their own study hall). The ancestral hall of the village has been restored in traditional style. The majority of domestic structures were courtyard style terrace houses of green brick. The majority of these buildings were relatively unaltered externally and retained decorative features. The majority of brick structures contained dark green to pale grey bricks. The paler bricks could be seen in several instances to be suffering from various degrees of erosion. Many of the houses, both old and new had a traditional shrine consisting of a stone placed in concrete with an incense holder in front.

(b) Tin Liu Tsuen (Figure 15.13)

The village is set on flat land and there was no evidence of a fung shui wood in the vicinity. The village gate and temple were both of traditional green brick construction. The majority of recorded resources were green brick terrace units. The majority of bricks were pale green grey in colour. Several of the structures contained concrete parapets on their facades, having had their decorative canopies removed.

The majority of structures in this village were modern, but at least ten years old. The village gate and ancestral hall of the Wu family are traditional green brick structures. The majority of bricks used in the structures were dark green in colour and in good condition.

(d) Pak Sha Tsuen (Figure 15.15)

Unlike the two nearby villages of Tin Liu Tsuen and Muk Kiu Tsuen, the gate of this village is of modern construction. Only a small number of structures were recorded in the village. The condition of many of these was very poor with almost half being ruinous. There were three examples of courtyard style terrace units remaining in the village.

(e) Tai Tong Tsuen (Figure 15.16)

The majority of the structures in the village were modern. The older buildings were for the most part abandoned or being used for storage. The area at the back of the village contained the ruins of a large study hall. There were several new buildings under construction at the time of the survey.

(f) Wong Nai Tun Tsuen (Figure 15.17)

This small village contained a higher percentage of older buildings than many of the other recorded villages. The houses ranged from large green brick, two storey structures to simple single storey, single room terrace units.

(g) Shui Tsiu San Tsuen (Figure 15.18 and 15.19)

The village contains a large number of ancestral halls, reflecting the different clans associated with the village. The ancestral halls are of similar architectural style, relatively undecorated façade with piers at both sides, open entrance hall and main hall. The gate of the village also reflects this style. The recorded houses of the village were constructed of green brick. They were not of a single architectural style. The majority of the structures in the village dated to the 1960’s and 70’s.

(h) Sham Chung Tsuen (Figure 15.20)

Again the majority of buildings in this village were modern. The older houses were for the most part, green brick courtyard style terrace units. Most of these buildings still had a decorative canopy over the entranceway. The bricks used in the structures varied from dark green to pale grey. The houses also contained examples of cut granite elements, such as corner stones, door frames and threshold stones.

(i) Shui Tsui Lo Wai (Figure 15.21)

The large number of clans associated with the village is reflected in the large number of ancestral halls found there. The majority of the halls have been rebuilt. As with most of the surveyed villages the majority of structures here were modern.

(j) Hung Tso Tin (Figure 15.21)

The village contains very few older structures. These were mostly houses, constructed of green brick and lacking any decorative features. The ancestral hall was rebuilt ten years ago. The village well ceased to be used about a decade ago.

(k) Cheng Chun Wai (Figure 15.22)

Very little of the traditional village still remains, apart from a disused well and village gate in very poor condition. The rest of the village is completely modern and does not contain a traditional layout.

(l) Nam Hang Tsuen (Figure 15.23)

The recorded structures in the village consisted of houses and a Kwun Yum hall. The houses were for the most part green brick terrace units with various degrees of modification.

(m) Tong Tau Po Tsuen (Figure 15.24)

The village has very few historical buildings, with only four house units being recorded. These were green brick terrace in style.

The village of Nga Yiu Tau does not contain a traditional layout and only contained a shrine and a green brick terrace row, Figure 15.25. The Tai Shu Ha Tin Hau temple is also located along to the north east of the village and is also shown in Figure 15.25.

(n) Shung Ching San Tsuen

Shung Ching San Tsuen does not contain a traditional village layout. There are several examples of mansions scattered throughout the area, the oldest remaining one, ‘Yau Lo’ (AAHB-213) being built in 1936, Figure 15.26. A church built in the 1930’s is also located on this map. Other mansions (AAHB-208, 209 and 210), Figure 15.27. These structures are very grand in style and contain numerous decorative architectural features. The area was originally inhabited for the most part, by Hakka people from Mui Yuen. The area was traditionally associated with the village of Hung Tso Tin. It was given the name Shung Ching San Tsuen approximately 30 years ago. The Shung Ching Public School (AAHB-215) was built in 1950, see Figure 15.28.

The locations of a gate and road inscription plaque (AAHB-211 and 212) can be seen on Figure 15.29, a shrine (AAHB-207) on Figure 15.30. An ancestral hall located on Tai Shu Ha Road West (AAHB-216) is shown in Figure 15.31.

Fung Lok Wai

(a) Tai Tseng Wai (Figure 15.32)

This village contained a number of older buildings. The majority of them were terrace houses, constructed of brick with no decorative features and a single pitched roof. The houses often had foundations of uncut or very roughly cut stones. A number of the houses were abandoned, used only for storage or housing family shrines. The traditional houses that were still being occupied often had alterations such as window additions, modern doors/gates and air conditioner units. As was seen in the village of Shing Uk Tsuen, most of the replacement village houses appear to have been constructed during the 1960’s and 1970’s.

(b) Shing Uk Tsuen (Figure 15.32)

This village contains a number of traditional structures. Many of the domestic structures were courtyard style terrace units. The majority of these structures were either abandoned or closed up and not being used as houses. Many of the modern replacement structures date to the 1970’s and 1980’s. There is no current building activity going on in the village. There are still a number of cut stone pieces, taken from demolished buildings, in the village.

This village contained a number of traditional structures in various conditions, although many of the older houses were abandoned or ruinous. The majority of replacement buildings in the village were at least ten years old and there was no evidence of ongoing construction. The area behind the village contained a fung shui wood.

The location of a shrine located on Fuk Shing Street can be seen on Figure 15.32.

Buddhist Blessing Stones

Twenty-four (indicated as B01 through B024 in this report) of these stones were identified in the field survey. All of the stones consist of a rectangular engraved granite block. As the basic form of the stones is the same, individual recording forms were not employed in the survey. Instead photographs of each stone have been included in Appendix 15.2 and the locations of the stones can be found on the following figures:

· B01, B02 and B03 (Figure 15.4)

· B04 and B05 (figure 15.5)

· B06 (Figure 15.20)

· B07 (Figure 15.21)

· B08 (Figure 15.30)

· B09 (Figure 15.30)

· B10, B11, B12 , B13, B14 and B15 (Figure 15.10)

· B16 (Figure 15.31)

· B17 (Figure 15.26)

· B18 and B19 (Figure 15.34)

· B20 (Figure 15.35)

· B21 (Figure 15.36)

· B22, B23 and B24 (Figure 15.11)

15.5.2 Graves

1:1000 scale maps of the study areas indicated that there were graves located in several areas. The field survey confirmed that the majority of graves were modern. The following historical graves were identified in the grave survey, (catalogue, including photographs and inscriptions, is included in this report in Appendix 15.3).

(a) Mong Tseng Tsuen (Figure 15.37)

YLKT-G01 Brick and concrete enclosure, in very poor condition, inscription obscured.

YLKT-G02 Two graves of the Cheung family. Last renovated during the Qing Dynasty, untended. Majority of inscription indiscernible. Concrete and brick construction.

YLKT-G03 Stone and concrete circular enclosure, inscription unreadable, untended.

(b) San Tin Park (Figure 15.38)

YLKT-G04 Concrete enclosure, over 100 years old according to local informants. Man family. Renovated in 1987. Modern structure.

YLKT-G05 Concrete enclosure, last renovated 1984 (previously 1858), modern features. Man family.

YLKT-G06 Concrete, over brick, enclosure with red and green decoration. Man family.

Renovated in 1962, modern features.

YLKT-G07 Concrete enclosure with pebble finish. Renovated in 1991. Man family.

YLKT-G10 Modern large concrete enclosure, pebble finish with red trim. Man and Law families.

YLKT-G11 Large concrete enclosure, pebble finish with red trim. Renovated in 1988. Man clan.

YLKT-G12 Concrete grave enclosure, modern features, original grave dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Man clan

YLKT-G13 Concrete enclosure. Red steps. Man clan. No renovation date.

YLKT-G14 A: Double grave, concrete, renovated in 1998. Modern features, originally dated to Qing Dynasty. B: Same style as A, renovated in 1954, man clan. Modern features.

YLKT-G15 Concrete enclosure with red and blue design above inscription. Man clan, renovated in 1954. Modern features.

YLKT-G16 Concrete enclosure with red rounded pattern over inscription. Qing renovation noted (1774), modern features, renovation date not noted.

YLKT-G17 Concrete enclosure with red decoration. Man clan. Modern features, brick underneath concrete visible in cracks.

YLKT-G18 A to F A series of renovated graves dating originally back to the Ming and Qing period. Concrete enclosures, modern features. Man clan.

YLKT-G19 Concrete enclosure with semi-circular platform. Modern features, renovated 1946. Man clan.

15.5.3 Cultural and Historical Landscape Features

As noted earlier, the aerial photographs showed that many of the villages traditionally contained fung shui woods and ponds. The field survey confirmed that the vast majority of these features are no longer in existence. Local informants noted that most of the woods were cut down in the 1970’s and 80’s for road and village/ light industry building construction. Fung shui woods were identified behind the villages of Mong Tseng Tsuen, see Figure 15.8 and Wong Nai Tun Tsuen, see Figure 15.17. None of the villages retained ponds.

15.6 Results of the Archaeological Field Evaluation (Construction Phase)

15.6.1 Mong Tseng Tsuen PS (Figure 15.44)

(a) Field scan

Field scan of the area proved difficult, as the Proposed Pumping Station (PPS) area is heavily overgrown. No natural cuts were observed, while the southern end of the PPS was used as dumping area for building rubble. No archaeological material was found.

(b) Minimum of 10 auger hole tests

Ten auger hole tests were evenly spaced within the PPS. The results of the auger tests indicated that the PPS is an alluvial area with interspersed rocks and water table level at an approximate depth of 1.2 meters below the surface. No archaeological finds were recovered from the tests.

The PPS is located on private land and no permission was gained to conduct a test pit excavation.

15.6.2 Sewer alignment on Wang Chau (Figure 15.43)

(a) Field scan

The surface was scanned for finds wherever possible. The study area is located on hill slopes and the vegetation cover consists of shrubs and trees. The hill slopes is occupied by graves and some of the open grave cuts could be checked for finds and stratigraphy. No archaeological finds were recovered from this area.

(b) Minimum of 20 auger hole tests

A total of twenty auger holes were conducted on the lower hill slopes at Wang Chau. The results of the tests indicate colluvial deposits on decomposing rock. Most of the auger holes had to be abandoned at shallow depths due to rock encounter. No archaeological finds or cultural soils were encountered in the tests.

Test pit 1(Figure 15.43 and Appendix 15.4)

The test pit was located at the lower hill slopes of Wang Chau in the vicinity of recent graves. It measured 2 by 2 meters and was hand excavated to a maximum depth of 1.50m. An auger hole test was conducted to further verify the stratigraphy.

TBM (0.685m) was taken on a grave located to the south of the test pit.

A total of three sterile contexts were recorded during the excavation (Appendix 15.5). Context 01 was brown very slightly silty and slightly gravelly silt. This topsoil had a thickness between 0.12 and 0.24m. Context 02 consisted of reddish yellow slightly sandy and slightly gravelly silt with angular to sub-angular cobbles. The colluvial layer had an approximate thickness of 0.70m. Context 03 was recorded around a depth of 0.80m below the surface and continued until the hand excavation of the test pit was halted for safety reasons at a depth of approximate 1.50m. It consisted of strong brown slightly sandy and slightly gravelly but very silty clay with decomposing angular to sub-angular cobbles. The auger hole test was halted immediately below the surface due to rock.

Test pit 2 (Figure 15.43 and Appendix 15.4)

The test pit was located at the lower hill slopes of Wang Chau. It measured 1.5 by 1.5 meters and was hand excavated to a depth of 0.70m due to the encounter of a fairly recent grave. No auger hole test was conducted due to the grave.

TBM (3.260m) was taken on the grave located to the east-northeast of the test pit.

A total of four contexts were recorded during the excavation (Appendix 15.5). Context 01 was brown very slightly sandy and very slightly clayey silt with angular cobbles and roots. This topsoil had a thickness between 0.12 and 0.34m. Context 02 consisted of reddish yellow slightly clayey silt with the occasional angular cobble. This fill layer contained some concrete chunks and red brick fragments. The fill layer had a thickness between 0.18 and 0.50m and covered the top of a grave structure. Context 03 is the grave structure itself (Appendix 15.5) and the soil on the western side of the test pit, which had a high lime residue content related to the actual burial coffin (Appendix 15.4). This soil with lime fragments was encountered at a depth of approximately 0.60m below the surface. Context 04 was light yellowish brown gravelly silt, which was excavated on the front side of the grave, representing the fill/colluvium covering the grave structure. This layer was excavated to a depth of 0.83m after which the excavation was halted.

15.6.3 Sewer alignment north of Tung Tau Tsuen (Figure 15.45)

The following methodology was proposed for the sewer alignment north of Tung Tau Tsuen:

· Field scan of the entire area

· Minimum of 20 auger hole tests

· Two test pits

The area however, is covered by asphalt and light industry workshops and was unavailable for testing.

15.6.4 Shan Ha Tsuen SPS (Figure 15.46)

(a) Field scan

The PPS area at Shan Ha Tsuen is located between a road and a light industry works area. It is fairly low-lying and small ditches with water run across the site. The surface of the PPS is mainly covered by grasses and the visibility was relatively good. No archaeological material was found.

(b) Minimum of 10 auger hole tests

The PPS area proved more or less rubbish and rubble free. The results of the auger tests indicated that this alluvial area is very wet. Water table was encountered at depths of 0.50 and 0.60m below the surface in the southern part of the PPS area and approximately 0.90m in other parts. No archaeological finds were recovered and no cultural soils encountered.

Test pit 1 (Figure 15.46 and Appendix 15.4)

The test pit was located in the northern part of the PPS. It measured 2 by 2 meters and was hand excavated to a depth of approximately 0.80m. An auger hole was conducted to further verify the stratigraphy.

TBM (0.620m) was taken from the NW corner of the male toilets located to the north west of the test pit.

A total of nine contexts were recorded during the excavation (Appendix 15.5). Context 01 was dark brown very slightly sandy, slightly silty clay. The topsoil was very irregular in thickness due to the ridge and furrow agriculture and its thickness ranged between 0.08 and 0.20m. All the subsequent recorded contexts are alluvial deposits. Context 02 consisted of brown very slightly sandy silty clay and had a thickness between 0.04 and 0.20m. Context 02 included thirteen tile fragments, fourteen pieces of village ware and four porcelain fragments and one marble (Appendix 15.4). Context 03 was grey slightly sandy silty clay and had a maximum thickness of 0.12m. This alluvial layer was recorded only in the southern half of the test pit and thinned out towards the north, it included the following material: one small tile fragment and two undiagnostic village ware sherds. Context 04 consisted of yellowish brown slightly sandy and slightly gravelly silty clay with a thickness of 0.15m. Context 05 was very pale brown slightly silty clay. The hand excavation was halted at depths between 0.38 and 0.78m below the surface due to water table. Context 05 had a thickness of 0.80m. Context 06 was found at a depth of 1.20m below the surface and consisted of reddish yellow slightly silty clay. Context 07 was light brown very slightly clayey sand at a depth of 1.83m below the surface. Context 08 consisted of grey gravelly sand at a depth of 2.20m below the surface. And Finally Context 09 was yellowish brown slightly gravelly sand recorded at a depth of 2.25m below the surface. The auger hole test was abandoned at a depth of 2.28m due to auger failing to hold soil.

15.6.5 Shung Ching San Tsuen SPS (Figure 15.47)

(a) Field scan

The area of the PPS could be divided into two parts. The southern half was covered in concrete, which is part of a new residential development called Regalia Garden. The northern half of the PPS is occupied by high grasses. The surface wherever possible was scanned for finds, however, the surface was covered by building debris and rubbish in many places. No archaeological remains were found.

(b) Minimum of 10 auger hole tests

All auger tests were positioned in the northern half of the PPS. The southern half of the PPS was found to be covered in concrete and was not available for testing. The results of the auger hole tests indicated that the entire area may be covered in fill. No archaeological findings were recovered from the auger tests.

Test pit 1(Figure 15.47 and Appendix 15.4)

The test pit was located in the centre of the PPS. It measured 2 by 2 meters and was hand excavated to a depth of approximately 1.40m. An auger hole test was conducted to further verify the stratigraphy.

TMB was taken on the south-western corner of the east gate post of the entrance to the Regalia Garden, which is located to the south of the test pit.

A total of nine contexts were recorded during the excavation (Appendix 15.5). Context 01 was light brown very sandy and very gravelly silt with cobbles. This fill layer also contained building debris, plastic and wood and had a thickness of approximately 0.40m. Context 02 was a fill layer of brown very gravelly and very sandy silt. Building debris, metal, plastic, wood and general rubbish was excavated from the Context 02 layer with a thickness between 0.70 and 0.85m. Context 03 was the last fill layer and consisted of olive sandy and gravelly clay with similar to above inclusions. It had a thickness of 0.40m. The hand excavation of the test pit was halted at a depth of approximately 1.40m below the surface. The auger test recorded the following sterile alluvial contexts: Context 04, very dark grey very slightly sandy silty clay was recorded at a depth of 1.47m below the surface. Context 05 was olive grey gravelly and silty clay at a depth of 1.58m below the surface. Context 06 consisted of olive silty and gravelly clay at a depth of 1.70m below the surface. Context 07 was olive sandy gravel at a depth of 1.92m below the surface. Context 08 consisted of olive yellow very slightly clayey, gravelly sand at a depth of 2.09m below the surface. And finally Context 09 was encountered at a depth of 2.88m below the surface and consisted of light yellowish brown silty, sandy and gravelly clay. The auger test was halted at a depth of 2.92m below the surface due to end of auger was reached.

15.7 Assessment Results for Built Heritage (Construction Phase)

The assessment of impacts will be divided in the following manner:

1) Firstly, by type of resource, i.e. built heritage resources, graves and cultural / historical landscapes;

2) Secondly, by alignment; and

3) Thirdly, by location of the resources and of the works areas,

· for works areas that are located outside village boundaries, resources within the assessed villages will be grouped as a village group.

· For works areas that are located within village boundaries, resources in close proximity to the works areas will be assessed individually

· All resources located outside of village boundaries will be assessed individually

The results of the impact assessment will be presented in table form. Tables will be presented for each alignment and will include, the recorded features, their distance from the works and the potential adverse impacts. Both pumping stations and sewage alignments will be assessed as part of the construction phase. The works to be carried out as part of the construction phase are not expected to generate adverse vibration impacts or cause any structural damage to any of the identified resources situated further than 10 metres away from the proposed works. Works to be carried out in very close proximity to identified resources, i.e. > 10 metres may potentially cause contact or vibration damage to these resources. It should be noted that only structures containing historical architectural features will be assessed for vibration damage as part of this report, as heritage resources, such as shrines, ancestral halls etc, that are of modern construction will not require any specialist assessment.

15.7.1 Impact on Resources

Lau Fau San to Mong Tseng

Table 15.1: Potential impacts to resources within villages

Village

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Alignment or PPS site

Potential Negative Impacts

San Hing Tsuen

Tsz Tongs, Houses and a fung shui wall (AAHB-01 to 20)

40m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the works area

Mong Tseng Tsuen

Tsz Tong, Houses, Well and a Shrine

(AAHB-29 to 53)

15m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the works area

Chung Yuen

Houses and a Shrine

(AAHB-23 to 25)

40m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the works area

Table 15.2: Potential impacts to resources outside villages

Location

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Alignment or PPS Site

Potential Negative Impacts

Lau Fau San Road

Modern constructed shrine

(AAHB-21)

Shrine (AAHB-22)

20m

Possible damage from contact with construction machinery or equipment and possible access restrictions; due to the close proximity to works area.

None, as the shrine is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment.

Near Sha Kong Wai

Temple and Shrine (AAHB-26 and 27)

Kwun Yum Statue (AAHB-28)

30m

None, as the temple, shrine and statue are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment.

San Tin to Ngau Tam Mei

Table 15.3: Potential impacts to resources within villages

Village	Resource	Minimum Distance to the Alignment or PPS Site	Potential Negative Impacts
On Lung Tsuen	Various Resources (AAHB-406 to 418 and 450 to 460)	20 m	None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the works areas
Fan Tin Tsuen	Various Resources (420 to 426 and 428 to 432, 484, 485 and 503) Ming Yuen Tong (AAHB-433) Shun Yue Tong and San Yeh Man Tong (AAHB-486 and 487) Shrine (AAHB-419) Man Lun Fung (AAHB-405)	30 m <5 m <5 m <5 m <5m	None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the works areas Possible structural damage from vibration and/or contact with construction machinery or equipment due to the close proximity to works area. Possible structural damage from vibration and/or contact with construction machinery or equipment due to the close proximity to works area. Possible structural damage from vibration and/or contact with construction machinery or equipment and possible access restrictions; due to the close proximity to works area. Possible structural damage from vibration and/or contact with construction machinery or equipment due to the close proximity to works area.
San Lung Tsuen	Various Resources (AAHB-436, 481, 482, 488 to 494 and 496 to 502)	10 m	None, as the structures are separated from the works area by modern buildings.
Mai Po Tsuen	Well, Village Gate, Ancestral Hall, House, Shrine and Temple (AAHB- 229 to 241)	15 m	None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment and separated from it by a concrete wall.

Village

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Alignment or PPS Site

Potential Negative Impacts

On Lung Tsuen

Various Resources

(AAHB-406 to 418 and 450 to 460)

20 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the works areas

Fan Tin Tsuen

Various Resources

(420 to 426

and 428 to 432, 484, 485 and 503)

Ming Yuen Tong (AAHB-433)

Shun Yue Tong and San Yeh Man Tong (AAHB-486 and 487)

Shrine (AAHB-419)

Man Lun Fung (AAHB-405)

30 m

<5 m

<5m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the works areas

Possible structural damage from vibration and/or contact with construction machinery or equipment due to the close proximity to works area.

Possible structural damage from vibration and/or contact with construction machinery or equipment and possible access restrictions; due to the close proximity to works area.

Possible structural damage from vibration and/or contact with construction machinery or equipment due to the close proximity to works area.

San Lung Tsuen

Various Resources (AAHB-436, 481, 482, 488 to 494 and 496 to 502)

10 m

None, as the structures are separated from the works area by modern buildings.

Mai Po Tsuen

Well, Village Gate, Ancestral Hall, House, Shrine and Temple

(AAHB- 229 to 241)

15 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment and separated from it by a concrete wall.

Table 15.4: Potential impacts to resources outside villages

Location	Resource	Minimum Distance to the Alignment or PPS Site	Potential Negative Impacts
Castle Peak Road (San Tin to Mai Po)	Temple (AAHB-505) Temple and shrine (AAHB-227) Well (AAHB-228) Modern village Gates (AAHB-231 and 240)	100 m >5 m 20 m >5 m	None, as the temple is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment. Possible structural damage to the temple from vibration and/or contact with construction machinery or equipment and possible access restrictions to both the temple and shrine; due to the close proximity to works area and works area being located on the access route. None, as the well is located at a sufficient distance from the works areas Possible damage from contact with construction machinery or equipment.
Castle Peak Road (Yau Mei Tsuen)	Shrine (AAHB-242) Gate (AAHB-243)	30 m 25 m	Access restrictions, as the path to the shrine originates on Castle Peak Road (a works area) None, as the gate is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment.

Location

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Alignment or PPS Site

Potential Negative Impacts

Castle Peak Road (San Tin to Mai Po)

Temple (AAHB-505)

Temple

and shrine

(AAHB-227)

Well (AAHB-228)

Modern village Gates (AAHB-231 and 240)

100 m

>5 m

20 m

>5 m

None, as the temple is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment.

Possible structural damage to the temple from vibration and/or contact with construction machinery or equipment and possible access restrictions to both the temple and shrine; due to the close proximity to works area and works area being located on the access route.

None, as the well is located at a sufficient distance from the works areas

Possible damage from contact with construction machinery or equipment.

Castle Peak Road (Yau Mei Tsuen)

Shrine (AAHB-242)

Gate (AAHB-243)

30 m

25 m

Access restrictions, as the path to the shrine originates on Castle Peak Road (a works area)

None, as the gate is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment.

Shap Pat Heung

(a) Shan Ha Tsuen

Table 15.5: Potential impacts to resources within villages

Village	Resource	Minimum Distance to the Alignment or PPS Site	Potential Negative Impacts
Shan Ha Tsuen	Houses, Stone Platform, Tsz Tongs/ Study halls, Well, Cannons and a Shrine (AAHB-177 to 206)	30 m	None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment and the proposed pumping station is not visible from any of the recorded resources.

Village

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Alignment or PPS Site

Potential Negative Impacts

Shan Ha Tsuen

Houses, Stone Platform, Tsz Tongs/ Study halls, Well, Cannons and a Shrine

(AAHB-177 to 206)

30 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment and the proposed pumping station is not visible from any of the recorded resources.

(b) Kung Um Road

Table 15.6: Potential impacts to resources within villages

Location

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Alignment or PPS Site

Potential Negative Impacts

Tin Liu Tsuen

Shrine, Houses, Temple and a Well

(AAHB-244 to 260)

20 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the works area

Muk Kiu Tau Tsuen

Modern constructed shrine (AAHB-262)

Gate, Well, Houses, Ancestral Hall and Temple

(AAHB-261 and 263 to 271)

<5 m

100 m

Possible damage from contact with construction machinery or equipment and possible access restrictions; due to the close proximity to works area.

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the works areas

Pak Sha Tsuen

Shrine (AAHB-272)

Gate Houses Temple Shed Study hall and Well

(AAHB-273 to 284)

10 m

60 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the works areas

Table 15.7: Potential impacts to resources within villages

Village

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Alignment or PPS Site

Potential Negative Impacts

Tai Tong Tsuen

Gate, Shrines, Ancestral halls, Shed, Study Hall and houses (AAHB-54 to 69)

35 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from works areas

Wong Nai Tun Tsuen

Shrine, Tsz Tong and

Houses

(AAHB-70 to 86)

50 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the works area

Shui Tsiu San Tsuen

Study Halls, Houses, Ancestral halls, Gates and Shrines (AAHB-87 to 116)

50 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the works area

Sham Chung Tsuen

Houses, Temple and Shrine

(AAHB-117 to 128)

90 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment

Table 15.8: Potential impacts to resources outside villages

Location

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Alignment or PPS Site

Potential Negative Impacts

Near Tai Tong

School (AAHB-86)

20 m

None, as the school grounds are separated from the works area by a compound wall and the alignment is located within the bounds of a large drainage channel.

Near Sham Chung Tsuen

Shrine (AAHB-130)

10 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment

(d) Tai Tong Road

Table 15.9: Potential impacts to resources within villages

Village

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Alignment or PPS Site

Potential Negative Impacts

Shui Tsui Lo Wai

Houses, Ancestral halls, Shrine, Study hall and cannon (AAHB-131 to 153)

50 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment

Hung Tso Tin

Well, Ancestral hall, House (AAHB-154 to 162)

30 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment

Nam Hang Tsuen

Houses and Temple (AAHB-165, 166, 167 to 173)

70 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment

Cheng Chu Wai

Gate, Well, House (AAHB--174 to 176)

30 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment

Table 15.10: Potential impacts to resources outside villages

Location

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Alignment or PPS Site

Potential Negative Impacts

Tai Tong Road

Modern constructed village gates (AAHB-129, 131, 162, 153, 164 and 211)

Temple (AAHB-163)

School (AAHB-215)

Shrine (AAHB-207)

House (AAHB-208, 209 and 210)

Inscription stone (AAHB-212)

5 m

30 m

20 m

>5 m

55 m

10 m

Possible damage from contact with construction machinery or equipment and possible access restrictions; due to the close proximity to works area.

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment

Possible contact damage and access restrictions due to the close proximity to works areas

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment

None, as the inscription stone is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment.

(e) Tai Shu Ha Road

Table 15.11: Potential impacts to resources within villages

Village

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Alignment or PPS Site

Potential Negative Impacts

Tong Tau Po Tsuen

Gates, Ancestral Hall and Houses

(AAHB-217 to 233)

70 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment.

Table 15.12: Potential impacts to resources outside villages

Location

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Alignment or PPS Site

Potential Negative Impacts

Tai Shu Ha Road East

Shrine (AAHB-224)

House (AAHB-225)

Temple (AAHB-226)

>5 m

80 m

20 m

Possible damage from contact with construction machinery or equipment and possible access restrictions; due to the close proximity to works area.

None, as the house is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment.

Access restrictions from works on Tai Shu Ha Road East

Tai Shu Ha Road West

(Shung Ching Tsuen)

House (AAHB-213)

Church (AAHB-214)

Ancestral Hall (AAHB-216)

60 m

90 m

70 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment

Yuen Long Effluent Pipeline

Table 15.13: Potential impacts to resources within villages

Village

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Alignment

Potential Negative Impacts

Shing Uk Tsuen

House, Tsz Tong, Study Hall and Shrine (AAHB-285 to 314)

40 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment.

Tai Tseng Wai

House, Gate, Tsz Tong, Study Hall and Shrine (AAHB-315 to 354)

40 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment.

Ng Uk Tsuen

House, Sheds, Shrine, Tsz Tong, Well, Gate, School and Rural Committee Building (AAHB-356 and 358 to 393)

55 m

None, as the structures are located at a sufficient distance from the alignment.

Table 15.14: Potential impacts to resources outside villages

Location

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Alignment

Potential Negative Impacts

Near Ng Uk Tsuen

Temple

(AAHB-355)

85 m

None, as the temple is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment

Corner of Fuk Shun St. and WSD service Road

Shrine

(AAHB-357)

<5m

Possible damage from contact with construction machinery or equipment and possible access restrictions; due to the close proximity to works area.

15.7.2 Impact on Buddhist Blessing Stones

All of the Buddhist blessing stones are located within close proximity to the works areas and may receive possible contact damage due to their close proximity to works areas.

15.7.3 Impact on Graves

The following assessment is based on the following factors, the type of works associated with the proposed project, the distance of the works and the fact that all of the graves are modern reconstructions, consisting of, in almost all cases, concrete. These graves do not possess historical architectural features that would possibly require special protective measures due to their fragile nature, during construction.

Table 15.15: Impacts to recorded graves

Number	Location	Distance from alignment	Potential Negative Impact
YLKT-G1	Mong Tseng Tsuen	60 metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment
YLKT-G2	Mong Tseng Tsuen	100metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment
YLKT-G03	Mong Tseng Tsuen	50 metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment
YLKT-G04	San Tin Park	60 metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment
YLKT-G05	Ka Lung Road	20 metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment
YLKT-G06	Ka Lung Road	20 metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment
YLKT-G07	Ka Lung Road	30 metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment
YLKT-G08	Ka Lung Road	25 metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment
YLKT-G09	Ka Lung Road	25 metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment
YLKT-G10	Ka Lung Road	25 metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment
YLKT-G11	Ka Lung Road	25 metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment
YLKT-G12	Ka Lung Road	25 metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment
YLKT-G13	Ka Lung Road	15 metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment
YLKT-G14	Ka Lung Road	50 metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment
YLKT-G15	Ka Lung Road	50 metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment
YLKT-G16 (A to F)	Ka Lung Road	50 metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment
YLKT-G17	Ka Lung Road	10 metres	None, as the grave is located at a sufficient distance from the alignment

15.7.4 Impact on Cultural and Historical Landscape Features

The two identified features, i.e. the fung shui woods associated with the villages of Mong Tseng Tsuen and Wong Nai Tun Tsuen both lie at a sufficient distance from the works area and will not be impact by the proposed projects.

15.8 Assessment Results on Archaeology (Construction Phase)

15.8.1 Desk-based assessment result (Archaeology During Construction Phase)

The results of the desk-based research identified:

· Areas of archaeological potential, of which five areas were agreed with the AMO for field evaluation at the EIA stage (field evaluation results are presented below);

· Yuen Long sewage treatment works effluent pipeline, conforming scheme 2A-IT is not the preferred option and has not been assessed, if this alignment is the preferred option and full cultural heritage impact assessment will have to be conducted; and

· Area of archaeological potential currently under road and thus not accessible for field evaluation :

Sewer alignment from YLEPS to Wang Chau

This proposed sewer alignment will occur on both Pleistocene terraced alluvium and debris flow deposits. The existing impacts on these original landforms, according to the desk-based research, are limited to water mains alignment and PCCW cable on the road. The area between the villages lies at a PD level of approximately 5m. Archaeological sites are known on similar landform as described here, for instance at Mong Tseng, Mai Po, Tung Tau and Tseung Kong Wai. The desk-based research did not indicate disturbance of the area along the road and identified no previous investigation in the area.

15.8.2 Assessment of the field evaluation (Archaeology during Construction Phase) – Appendix 15.6

(a) Mong Tseng Tsuen PS

Auger test results indicate an alluvial deposit is located at the PPS area. The proximity of the historical buildings of Mong Tseng suggests Qing Dynasty material should be found, although none was recovered from the auger hole testing. A test pit excavation will confirm any Qing Dynasty remains or identify other periods in this area.

(b) Sewer alignment on Wang Chau

The field scan, auger programme and test pit excavations all identified that the lower hill slopes of Wang Chau have no archaeological potential.

The desk-based research had identified the sewer alignment at Tung Tau Tsuen to have archaeological potential, due to asphalt and concrete cover the area proved not available for testing at this moment.

(d) Shan Ha Tsuen SPS

Auger test and test pit excavation results indicate an alluvial deposit is located at the PPS area. The deposits were sterile and the water table level was encountered at depths above 1 meter below the surface. No archaeological deposits, features or cultural soils were encountered.

(e) Shung Ching San Tsuen SPS

Part of the area was unavailable for testing. The portion, which was tested during the field evaluation, indicated that the area has been artificially raised. Original alluvial layers did not appear until 1.55m below the surface. The alluvial deposits are low-lying and near water table, diminishing the archaeological potential in this area.

15.9 Mitigation Measures on Built Heritage for Construction Phase

The presentation of mitigation measures will be presented in the following tables.

Lau Fau Shan to Mong Tseng Tsuen

Table 15.16: Mitigation recommendations for resources within villages

Location

Resource

Distance

Mitigation Recommendations

Lau Fau Shan Road

Modern constructed shrine (AAHB-21)

>5 m

The shrine should be provided with a buffer zone of minimum 1 m, marked out by high visibility fencing;

Access to the shrine should be maintained through the provision of walkways separated from the works areas by metal barriers.

San Tin to Ngau Tam Mei

Table 15.17: Mitigation recommendations for resources within villages

Location

Resource

Distance

Mitigation Recommendations

Fan Tin Tsuen

Man Lung Fung Ancestral Hall (AAHB-405)

Shrine (AAHB-419)

Ming Yuen Tong (AAHB-433)

Shun Yue Tong and San Yeh Man Tong (AAHB-486 and 487)

<5m

<5 m

<5m

As the works are in close proximity to the southwestern wall of the ancestral hall, which is a Declared Monument, the contractor must carry out a condition survey of the building. This survey must be carried out in advance of works and a report must be compiled, containing description of the types of construction, identification of fragile elements, an appraisal of the condition and working methods for any proposed monitoring and precautionary measures that are recommended.

The report must be submitted to AMO for approval before construction activities commence. Upon approval the contractor shall implement the approved monitoring and precautionary measures.

The shrine should be provided with a buffer zone of minimum 1 m, marked out by high visibility fencing;

Access to the shrine should be maintained through the provision of walkways separated from the works areas by metal barriers.

As the works are in close proximity to the southeastern wall of the ancestral hall, which is a Grade II building, the contractor must carry out a condition survey of the building. This survey must be carried out in advance of works and a report must be compiled, containing description of the types of construction, identification of fragile elements, an appraisal of the condition and working methods for any proposed monitoring and precautionary measures that are recommended.

The report must be submitted to AMO for approval before construction activities commence. Upon approval the contractor shall implement the approved monitoring and precautionary measures.

As the works are in close proximity to the southeastern walls of both of the Shun Yue Tong and San Yeh Man Tong, which are Grade I and Grade II buildings, respectively, the contractor must carry out a condition survey of both of the buildings. This survey must be carried out in advance of works and a report must be compiled, containing description of the types of construction, identification of fragile elements, an appraisal of the condition and working methods for any proposed monitoring and precautionary measures that are recommended.

The report must be submitted to AMO for approval before construction activities commence. Upon approval the contractor shall implement the approved monitoring and precautionary measures.

Table 15.18: Mitigation recommendations for resources outside villages

Location

Resource

Distance

Mitigation Recommendations

Castle Peak Road (San Tin to Mai Po)

Temple

and shrine

(AAHB-227)

Modern constructed village gates

(AAHB-231 and 240)

>5 m

10m

>5 m

The temple, although renovated contains historical architectural elements and is located directly on the edge of the works area. Hence, the contractor must carry out a condition survey of the building. This survey must be carried out in advance of works and a report must be compiled, containing description of the types of construction, identification of fragile elements, an appraisal of the condition and working methods for any proposed monitoring and precautionary measures that are recommended. The report must be submitted to AMO for approval before construction activities commence. Upon approval the contractor shall implement the approved monitoring and precautionary measures.

The shrine is located at a sufficient distance as to not require any protective measures during the construction phase. Access to the temple and shrine should be maintained through the provision of walkways separated from the works areas by metal barriers.

The base of the gates should be provided with a protective covering in the form of heavy duty plastic sheeting, supported by scaffolding where necessary.

Castle Peak Road (Yau Mei Tsuen)

Shrine (YLKT-02-242)

30 m

The shrine is located at a sufficient distance as to not require any protective measures during the construction phase. Access from Castle Peak Road should be maintained through the provision of walkways separated from the works areas by metal barriers.

Shap Pat Heung

(a)Shan Ha Tsuen

There were no impacts associated with this alignment and pumping station, therefore no mitigation is required.

(b) Kung Um Road

Table 15.19: Mitigation recommendations for resources within villages

Location

Resource

Distance

Mitigation Recommendations

Muk Kiu Tau Tsuen

Shrine (AAHB-262)

5 m

The shrine should be provided with a buffer zone of minimum 1 m, marked out by high visibility fencing;

Access to the shrine should be maintained through the provision of walkways separated from the works areas by metal barriers.

There were no impacts associated with this alignment and pumping station, therefore no mitigation is required.

(d) Tai Tong Road (Northern Section)

Table 15.20: Mitigation recommendations for resources outside villages

Location

Resource

Distance

Mitigation Recommendations

Tai Tong Road

Gates

(AAHB-129,131,153,162, 164 and 211)

c.5 m

The base of the gates should be provided with a protective covering in the form of heavy duty plastic sheeting, supported by scaffolding where necessary.

Tai Tong Road

Shrine (AAHB-207)

>5 m

The shrine should be provided with a buffer zone of minimum 1 m, marked out by high visibility fencing;

Access to the shrine should be maintained through the provision of walkways separated from the works areas by metal barriers.

(e) Tai Shu Ha Road

Table 15.21: Mitigation recommendations for resources outside villages

Location

Resource

Distance

Mitigation Recommendations

Tai Shu Ha Road East

Shrine (AAHB-224)

Temple (AAHB-226)

>5 m

15 m

The shrine should be provided with a buffer zone of minimum 1 m, marked out by high visibility fencing;

Access to the shrine should be maintained through the provision of walkways separated from the works areas by metal barriers.

The entrance to the temple is located directly from Tai Shu Ha Road, access from the road should be maintained throughout the construction phase.

(f) Tai Shu Ha Road West

There were no impacts associated with this alignment and pumping station, therefore no mitigation is required.

Yuen Long Effluent Pipeline

Table 15.22: Mitigation recommendations for resources outside villages

Location

Resource

Distance

Mitigation Recommendations

Corner of Fuk Shun St. and WSD Service Road

Shrine

(AAHB-357)

<5m

The shrine should be provided with a buffer zone of minimum 1 m, marked out by high visibility fencing;

Access to the shrine should be maintained through the provision of walkways separated from the works areas by metal barriers.

15.9.1 Buddhist Blessing Stones

The stones do not contain any fragile elements and will not require any protective measures during the works.

15.9.2 Graves

There will be no impacts to any of the surveyed graves in the study area or to those located within the Cassino camp, therefore no mitigation measures will be necessary.

15.9.3 Cultural and Historical Landscape Features

No cultural or historical landscape features will be impacted by the project, therefore, no mitigation measures will be required.

15.10 Mitigation Measures on Archaeology for Construction Phase

15.10.1Mong Tseng Tsuen PS (non-designated element)

The site is private and field survey was not allowed. Further investigation should be carried out after the resumption of the land and prior to commencement of any works. The investigation should comprise of a minimum of one test pit excavation, measuring no less than 2 by 2 meters to verify the stratigraphy and potential archaeological deposits in the Mong Tseng PPS.

15.10.2Sewer alignment on Wang Chau (non- designated element)

The results from the field investigation indicate a lack of archaeological deposits and cultural soils. No further action is required.

15.10.3Sewer alignment north of Tung Tau Tsuen (non- designated element)

The site was occupied by local villagers and field survey was not allowed. Investigation should be carried out after the resumption of the land and prior to commencement of any works. The investigation should comprise of a minimum of 20 auger hole tests and two test pit excavations measuring no less than 2 by 2 meters to verify the stratigraphy and potential archaeological deposits within the known archaeological site.

15.10.4Shan Ha Tsuen SPS (non-designated element)

The field investigation results indicate that the area exists of sterile alluvial deposits with a high water table and is thus considered to have no archaeological potential. No further action is required.

15.10.5Shung Ching San Tsuen SPS (non-designated element)

The field investigation results indicate that the area has been artificially raised by 1.5m fill. Sterile alluvial deposits were encountered at a depth of more than 1.5m. No further action is required.

15.10.6Sewer alignment from YLEPS to Wang Chau (non- designated element)

Archaeological monitoring is recommended during the excavations of the sewer alignment between the historic villages of Tai Tseng Ng Uk Tsuen, Tai Tseng Wai and Shing Uk Tsuen.

15.11 Assessment Methodology for Operational Phase

15.11.1Potential Sources of Impact During Operational Phase

Archaeology.

No impacts on archaeological deposits are anticipated during the operational phase.

Built Heritage

The impact assessment for the operational phase will deal with the proposed sites of the pumping stations and will entail aesthetic impacts. The recording methodology used in the assessment will be the same as that used for the construction phase.

15.11.2Assessment Approach for Operational Phase

The assessment methodology for impacts, which may occur during the operational phase is the same as for impacts which will occur during the construction phase.

15.12 Assessment Results for Operational Phase

15.12.1Archaeology

The impacts on the archaeological deposits will occur during the construction phase. No impacts are expected during the operational phase.

15.12.2Built Heritage

The impacts with the operational phase are associated with the proposed pumping station buildings.

Lau Fau Shan to Mong Tseng Tsuen

(a) Mong Tseng Tsuen pumping Station

Table 15.23: Potential impacts to resources within villages

Village

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Proposed Pumping Station

Potential Negative Impacts

Mong Tseng Tsuen

Tsz Tong, Houses, Well and Shrine (AAHB-29 to 53)

15 m

Aesthetic impacts affecting the environmental setting of the resources

San Tin to Ngau Tam Mei

Table 15.24: Potential impacts to resources within villages

Village

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Proposed Pumping Station

Potential Negative Impacts

On Lung Tsuen

Various resources

(AAHB-406 to 418 and 450 to 460)

60 m

None, as the structures are not located in the vicinity of a proposed pumping station

Fan Tin Tsuen

Various Resources (AAHB-419 to 426, 428 to 432, 484, 485 and 503)

Man Lun Fung (AAHB-405)

Ming Yuen Tong (AAHB-433)

40 m

10 m

15 m

None, as the structures are not located in the vicinity of a pumping station

Aesthetic impacts affecting the environmental setting of the resources

San Lung Tsuen

Various Resources (AAHB-436, 481, 482, 488 to 494 and 496 to 502)

45 m

None, as the structures are not located in the vicinity of a pumping station

Table 15.25: Potential impacts to resources outside villages

Location

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Proposed Pumping Station

Potential Negative Impacts

Castle Peak Road (San Tin to Mai Po)

Temple (AAHB-505)

Temple and shrine (AAHB-227)

Well (AAHB-228)

Gates (AAHB-311 and 321)

over 100 m

None, as the structures are not located in the vicinity of a pumping station

Castle Peak Road (Yau Mei Tsuen)

Shrine (AAHB-242)

Gate (AAHB-243)

over 100 m

None, as the structures are not located in the vicinity of a pumping station

Shap Pat Heung

(a) Shan Ha Tsuen

Table 15.26: Potential impacts to resources within villages

Village

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Proposed Pumping Station

Potential Negative Impacts

Shan Ha Tsuen

Houses, Stone Platform, Tsz Tongs/ Study halls, Well, Cannons and a Shrine

(AAHB-177 to 206)

30 m

None, as the structures are not located within the vicinity of a pumping station.

(b) Kung Um Road

Table 15.27: Potential impacts to resources within villages

Location

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Proposed Pumping Station

Potential Negative Impacts

Pak Sha Tsuen

Gate Houses Temple Shed Study hall and Well and Shrine

(AAHB-272 to 284)

60 m

None, as the structures are not located in the vicinity of a pumping station

There are no resources within 100 metres of a proposed pumping station; therefore, there will be no associated impacts.

(d) Tai Tong Road (Northern Section)

There are no resources within 100 metres of a proposed pumping station; therefore, there will be no associated impacts.

(e) Tai Shu Ha Road

Table 15.28: Potential impacts to resources outside villages

Location

Resource

Minimum Distance to the Proposed Pumping Station

Potential Negative Impacts

Tai Shu Ha Road East

Temple (AAHB-226)

20 m

Aesthetic impacts affecting the environmental setting of the resources

Yuen Long Effluent Pipeline

There are no resources within 100 metres of a proposed pumping station, therefore, there will be no associated impacts.

15.13 Mitigation Measures for Operational Phase

15.13.1Archaeology

No mitigation measures are required as no impacts are expected during the operational phase.

15.13.2Built Heritage

Built Features

The following resources will require mitigation measures with respect to the operational phase. The Mong Tseng Tsuen, Fan Tin Tsuen and Nga Yiu Tau pumping stations are non-Designated Elements.

(a) Lau Fau Shan to Mong Tseng

Table 15.29: Mitigation recommendations for resources within villages

Location

Resource

Minimum Distance to PPS Site

Mitigation Recommendations

Mong Tseng Tsuen

Village structures (AAHB-29 to 53)

15 m

As the pumping station is located at the front of the village, the landscaping of the area around the pumping station should include planting of foliage complimentary to the existing environmental setting, in order to screen the proposed pumping station and minimise visual impacts.

The colour treatment of the proposed pumping station should minimise visual impact.

(General examples can be found in Figures 14.62 through 14.65)

(b) San Tin to Ngau Mei Tsuen

Table 15.30: Mitigation recommendations for resources within villages

Location

Resource

Minimum Distance to PPS Site

Mitigation Recommendations

Fan Tin Tsuen

Man Lung Fung Ancestral Hall (AAHB-405)

Ming Yuen Tong (AAHB-433)

10 m

15 m

As the proposed pumping station is located in the vicinity of two Tsz Tongs, one of which is a Declared Monument, the landscaping of the area around the proposed pumping station should include planting of foliage complimentary to the existing environmental setting, in order to screen the proposed pumping station and minimise visual impacts.

The colour treatment of the proposed pumping station should minimise visual impact. Itis recommended that the design and materials of the proposed pumpingstation should visually harmonize with the existing historic ancestralhalls of Man Lun Fung and Ming Yuen Tong, for example, grey brickwork andgranite are preferable for the exterior elevations.

(General examples can be found in Figures 14.62 through 14.65)

Table 15.31: Mitigation recommendations for resources outside villages

Location

Resource

Distance

Mitigation Recommendations

Tai Shu Ha Road East (Nga Yiu Tau)

Temple (AAHB-226)

20 m

The landscaping of the area around the pumping station should include planting of foliage complimentary to the existing environmental setting, in order to screen the proposed pumping station and minimise visual impacts.

The colour treatment of the proposed pumping station should minimise visual impact.

(General examples can be found in Figures 14.62 through 14.65)

Buddhist Blessing Stones

Buddhist blessing stones are placed at roadsides and mark the location of a fatal accident. The surrounding environment is not a relevant factor and thus they do not need to be assessed as to changes in their environmental setting.

Graves

There will be no impacts to any of the surveyed graves in the study area or to those located within the Cassino camp, therefore no mitigation measures will be necessary.

Cultural and Historical Landscape Features

No cultural or historical landscape features will be impacted by the project, therefore, no mitigation measures will be required.

16.0 Fishery impact

This Section of the EIA Report presents the findings of the impact assessment of the construction and operation of the proposed sewerage system and pumping stations on aquaculture fisheries resources and operations. Baseline information on the potentially affected existing aquaculture fisheries resources and operations is presented and evaluated.

16.1 Legislation and Standards

The criteria for evaluating fisheries impacts are laid out in the Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM). Annex 17 of the EIAO-TM outlines the general approach and methodology for the assessment of impacts. Annex 9 of the EIAO-TM recommends some general criteria that can be used for evaluating impacts to fisheries, including aquaculture fisheries resources and operations.

Other relevant environmental references, legislation, guidelines and include:

* Relevant Study Brief;

* Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines (HKPSG) Chapter 10;

* Fisheries Protection Ordinance (Cap. 171) 1987 and its subsidiary legislation, the Fisheries Protection Regulations.

Fisheries Protection Ordinance (Cap. 171) provides for the conservation of fish and other aquatic life and regulates fishing practices.

16.2 Assessment Methodology

The requirements of fisheries impact assessment of the Project area followed Section 3.4.7, Appendix 3 of the Study Brief. The study brief indicated the criteria and guidelines for assessing fisheries impacts as specified in Annexes 9 and 17 of the EIAO TM should be followed.

For the purpose of fisheries assessment, the assessment area is defined as all areas within 500m from the site boundary of the works area. This definition meets the requirement as stipulated by the Study Brief, i.e. “the assessment area for fisheries impact assessment included but was not limited to the fishponds in the Conservation Area near Shan Pui River and any other water system identified for fisheries purpose during the course of study”.

A desktop review of baseline conditions was conducted using relevant literature, aerial photographs and a Geographical Information System (GIS). A number of more focused baseline field surveys were then proposed to supplement and verify the review findings.

A literature review was undertaken to describe the baseline conditions in the Assessment Area, and to identify areas and species of potential fisheries importance which may be affected by the project. Reviewed documents include Government and private sector reports, as well as unpublished information.

The commercial fishery in Hong Kong is composed of capture fisheries and culture fisheries. The AFCD annual reports from 1991/1992 to 1999/2000 were consulted to assess pond culture fisheries impacts.

Field verification of the operational status of the fishponds in the Assessment Area were conducted at intervals during June 2002 and January 2003 simultaneously with the habitat surveys for terrestrial ecology. Fisheries operations such as stocking, feeding and harvesting, the presence of fisheries devices such as aerators and anti-cormorant wires, and the maintenance conditions of the facilities along the pond bunds were noted. The status of fishponds (active or abandoned) was evaluated based upon management conditions of the ponds, the presence of fish farming materials and/or equipment, and fish farming activities. The information presented in the following sections has been based on the findings of the review and these surveys.

16.3 Fisheries Baseline Condition

As stipulated in Section 3.4.7 of the EIA Study Brief, within the "Assessment Area", special attention should be paid to the fishponds in the Conservation Area near Shan Pui River.

Inland fishponds in Hong Kong, covering 1060 ha in 2000, are mainly located in the northwest New Territories. 2820 tonnes of freshwater fish, including mostly Chinese carp and some tilapia, grey mullet, snakehead and catfish, were produced in 2000, accounting for 6% of the local freshwater fish consumption.

Fishponds in the Deep Bay area and the northwest New Territories probably peaked in area during the 1970s or 1980s. In recent years, these ponds have been increasingly subject to conversion for other, more lucrative landuses, including open storage. Development projects including roads, railways, flood control schemes and housing developments have also accounted for a certain amount of pond loss.

Figure 13.2 of Section 13 shows the distributions and status of fishponds in the Assessment Area for the proposed project. Within this area, there are about 113 fishponds covering 295 ha. Among them, 60 fishponds are active (covering 230 ha), while the remaining 53 are abandoned (covering 65 ha).

The majority of the Study Area to be affected by the proposed Project has been degraded by development and urbanisation. Fisheries sensitive receivers in the Study Area comprise active fishponds.

Results from the survey estimated that there are approximately one hundred and thirteen fishponds in this area. It is estimated that the fishponds make up an area of approximately 295 hectares. The majority (78% of the total, equivalent to about 230 hectares) of these fishponds are active. The active fishponds concentrate in Shan Pui (to the north of Yuen Long Industry Estate), along the both sides of the shores of Channel 60CD (Nam Sang Wai & Tai Sang Wai), Mai Po Lo Wai and San Tin. The predominant fish species cultured in these ponds include the mullet (Mugil cephalus) and the four carp species traditionally cultured in Chinese pond aquaculture. These are the grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus), the silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix), big-head carp (Aristichthys nobilis) and the common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Snakehead and catfish are also cultured.

The remaining active fishponds and all abandoned fishponds are scattered within the Assessment Area among urbanised/disturbed habitats. Apparently not all ponds were managed, i.e. no pump was seen and most grassy bunds were not trimmed. . Most of the ponds still had open water, except one that was overgrown with vegetation.

Fishponds at San Wai were ranked as Grade C by the Agriculture, & Fisheries & Conservation Department (AFD undated). The Categorization of Agricultural Land of AFCD ranking recorded 13 ha of fishponds at Hung Shui Kiu - Ha Tsuen area in 1995 (Reference No. 49, covering Fung Kong Tsuen, Tseung Kong Tsuen, Sik Kong Tsuen, Tung Tau Tsuen, Lo Uk Tsuen, San Wai, San Sang Tsuen, Lee Uk Tsuen and Shek Po Tsuen, see AFD 1995) and all agricultural lands were ranked as Grade D (AFD 1995) ^[30]. The AFCD categorization stated that most agricultural land in the area has been converted for use as open storage (ibid.) ^[30]. The field survey of the present project verified and confirmed the ranking and description in 1995.

34 ha of fishponds were recorded at the area from Lau Fau Shan to Tsim Bei Tsui in 1995 by AFCD (Reference No. 21, covering Sha Kiu Tsuen, Mong Tsang Wai, San Hing Tsuen, Sha Kong Wai and Lau Fau Shan, see AFD 1995). Though the agriculture lands there were ranked as Grade B (ibid) ^[30] but the fishponds themselves were ranked as the lowest grade for fishponds (Grade C: Areas with scattered small fishponds and substantial amount of fishponds are either either idle or filled. They are subject to high development pressure due to its proximity to developments) (AFD undated)^[31].

505 ha of fishponds were recorded in the area from Ng Uk Tsuen North, Shan Pui North to Nam Sang Wai and Tai Sang Wai (Reference No.9, see AFD 1995) ^[30]. Both the agricultural lands inside this area and the fishponds themselves were ranked as Grade A.

In the area from Chuk Yuen Tsuen to Lok Ma Chau, 395 ha of fishponds were recorded in 1995 (Reference No.10, covering Chuk Yuen, Tai Shang Wai, Mai Po North, Lo Wai, Sna Tin North, Tam Kon Chau and Lok Ma Chau West, see AFD 1995). Both the agricultural lands inside this area and the fishponds themselves were ranked as Grade A.

All fishponds in the Shap Pat Heung area were ranked as Grade C. Only 11 ha of fishponds were recorded within the entire area (Reference 32, 42 & 43) in 1995 (AFD 1995) ^[30].

In the present study, only 0.75ha of active fishponds were recorded within the part of the assessment area which covers Shap Pat Heung, while 116.72 ha of active and 30.96 ha of abandoned fishponds were recorded within the part of the assessment area which covers Ngau Tam Mei and San Tin Areas (2A-2T and 2B-1T). 112.5 ha of active and 33.62 ha of abandoned fishponds were left in the remaining assessment area.

Table 16.1: Areas of fishponds within the 500m study area

	Area (ha)
Works Package	Active Fishponds	Abandoned Fishponds
Ngau Tam Mei and San Tin Areas (2A-2T and 2B-1T)	116.72	30.96
Lau Fau Shan and Mong Tseng Areas (2A-3T) Tin Shui Wai and San Wai Areas (Alternative 2A-1T)	112.50	33.62
Shap Pat Heung Area (2B-2T)	0.75	0

Based upon the above review of baseline fisheries conditions in the Assessment Area, the sensitive fisheries receivers which may be affected by the proposed project have been identified as the active fishponds within the assessment area.

16.4 Impact Identification and Evaluation for Construction Phase

Impact assessment methodology follows the criteria and guidelines for evaluating and assessing fisheries impact as stated in Annex 9 and 17 of the EIAO-TM. Impacts are generally ranked as "minor", "moderate" or "severe", although in a few cases a ranking of "minimal" (less than "minor") may be given. The ranking of a given impact will vary based on the criteria in the EIAO-TM. The major factors giving rise to a ranking are explained in the text.

The fisheries impacts of the project components are assessed individually, then cumulatively with other past, ongoing and proposed projects. Where negative impacts are identified, efforts are made to identify feasible mitigation measures which might be developed to reduce the severity of negative impacts. These measures should be described in terms of their scope, programme, feasibility and financial implications during the construction and operation of the project. Finally, the consultants determined whether the proposed mitigation measures, if implemented, could bring the negative impacts of the project and its components within acceptable bounds.

Predominant impacts to fishery operations and resources usually occur through the loss, temporary or permanent, of areas supporting fisheries resources.

In the present proposed project, however, there will be no marine or intertidal infrastructure element involved. No temporary or permanent loss of fishing grounds or mariculture sites would result from implementation of the project. Indirect impacts on marine capture and culture fisheries usually are usually caused by changes in marine water quality. As no marine or intertidal construction works are involved, and the surface runoff will be minimal due to the distance from the construction sites to the coastline, there will be no indirect impacts to marine capture and marine culture fisheries during the construction phase. Therefore no impacts from construction of the present project on marine capture and culture fisheries are anticipated.

The potential impacts to aquaculture fisheries resources and operations arising from the construction of the proposed sewerage system and pumping stations include the direct loss of fishpond habitat resulting from the construction of the Project.

For inland fishponds, only a part (0.05 ha) of one fishpond on the alignment of sewer from the existing San Wai STW toward Tin Shui Wai will be permanently encroached (Figure 13.2). This fishpond would be liable to permanent direct impacts from the project. Within the site of the alignment, fish culture will not be possible during the construction or operational phases. This will constitute a permanent loss of fishponds. The total area of the affected ponds would be about 0.05 ha. This figure constitutes a permanent loss of less than 0.005 % of the 1060 ha of fishponds in Hong Kong (AFCD 2001) ^[29].

This fishpond, though classified as active due to the presence of aerator and the conditions of the pond bunds, was isolated from other active fishponds in the area. Given the small percentage of loss and its isolated location, the impact on inland fishpond culture in Hong Kong from the loss of this part of one fishpond due to the proposed project is ranked as minimal.

None of the other alignments or pumping stations would cause any permanent direct impacts to fishponds.

An area of 0.20 ha distributed in three fishponds (mainly underneath pond bunds) at Shan Pui will be temporarily occupied as works areas (Figure 13.2). This area, however, will be reinstated after the construction, and only consistute a temporary direct impact.

16.4.1 Tin Shui Wai and San Wai Areas (Alternative 2A-1T)

This element includes a sewer alignment starting from Ha Tsuen, passing through Tin Shui Wai and ending at Yuen Long STW.

Direct impacts arised from this element include a permanent loss of 0.05ha active fishpond area and a temporary loss of 0.20 ha active fishpond area.

The only permanent direct impact predicted to occur to aquaculture fisheries is the permanent direct loss of part of an active fishpond as a result of the construction of the sewerage alignment Alternative 2A-1T. It is calculated that approximately less than 0.05 ha of the fishpond will overlap with the alignment and thus will be lost through construction. Based on the size of this loss, this loss of fishpond is ranked as minimal deemed acceptable.

The majority of the proposed sewerage alignment will be constructed along the roads and main drainage channels that are urbanised and disturbed. Three active fishponds within WCA in Shan Pui, however, are adjacent to the section of sewer alignment running along the Yuen Long STW western boundary. Due to the need of work areas during the construction of the sewer, a total of 0.20 ha fishpond areas (mainly underneath pond bunds), distributed along the three fishpond’s edges which are in contact with the sewer alignment, will be occupied during the constuction phase. These fishpond areas will be reinstated after the construction works are finished. Based on the size of this loss and its limited duration of loss, this impact on fishpond is ranked as minor.

One abandoned fishpond in Shan Pui is close to the further westward section of the alignment. The sewer alignment is also near one active fishpond and one abandoned fishpond in San Wai. Though the sewers are proposed to be buried underneath footpaths and roads and the ground surface will be reinstated afterwards, site runoff from the works areas might affect the fishponds and consistute indirect impacts. Given the nature of the impacts and the small number of fishponds potentially affected, the impact is ranked as minor.

No direct or indirect impact on fishponds would be expected from construction of the pumping station.

16.4.2 Ngau Tam Mei and San Tin Areas (2A-2T and 2B-1T)

This element includes a sewer alignment which starts at Siu Hum Tsuen, runs southwest along Castle Peak Road till Ngau Tam Mei, switches to the embankment of the newly constructed 100CD drainage channel, and ends at 60CD drainage channel.

No fishponds would be directly affected by the alignment. The majority of the proposed sewerage alignment will be constructed along the roads and main drainage channels that are urbanised and disturbed. For the majority of the sewer alignment, there is also no fishpond near or close to the alignment, except the section of alignment close to the sewage treatment works in Ngau Tam Mei in where the alignment is adjacent to six active fishponds. Near Mai Po Lo Wai, the alignment is close to another active fishpond. Two abandoned fishponds in San Wai also near a section of alignment.

The sewers are proposed to be buried underneath footpaths and roads and the ground surface will be reinstated afterwards. Site runoff from the works areas might affect the fishponds. Given the nature of the impacts and the small number of fishponds potentially affected, the impact is ranked as minor.

16.4.3 Lau Fau Shan and Mong Tseng Areas (2A-3T)

This element includes a sewer alignment starting from Lau Fau Shan, and another one starting at Mong Tseng. These two sections join at Sha Kong Wai Tsai, cross the Tin Shui Wai Western Drainage Channel, and join the sewer of 2A-1T.

There is a small area of sea and coastline within the assessment area, located at the northwest end of this part of the assessment area. This marine area, however, is away from the alignment and would not be subject to any direct or indirect impact from the project.

The majority of the proposed sewerage alignment will be constructed along the roads and embankment of main drainage channels that are urbanised and disturbed. No fishponds would be directly affected by the alignment. For the majority of the sewer alignment, there is also no fishponds near or close to the alignment, except the section at Mong Tseng where the alignment will follow an existing road which is adjacent to one active and two abandoned fishponds.

16.4.4 Shap Pat Heung Area (2B-2T)

As described above, presently there are only 0.75 ha of active fishponds within this part of the assessment area. Moreover, all active fishponds are located close to the southern assessment area boundary and far away from the locations of all proposed works. No land resumption process would be needed for the fishponds within this part of the assessment area. No direct or indirect impacts on fishponds or their operations would be expected from the project.

16.5 Impact Avoidance and Mitigation Measures for Construction Phase

In accordance with the guidelines in the EIAO-TM on fisheries impact assessment the approaches to mitigating impacts to fisheries, in order of priority, are avoidance, minimising, and compensation.

Only 0.05 ha of fish pond will be permanently lost for the entire project, and 0.20 ha of fish pond areas will be temporarily occupied during construction. As the proposed construction of the sewerage system and pumping stations are not predicted to have a significant or unacceptable impact on aquaculture fisheries resources and operations in the assessment area, no fisheries-specific mitigation measures are required.

16.5.1 Tin Shui Wai and San Wai Areas (Alternative 2A-1T)

Permanent direct impacts of this project to fish culture in fishponds in San Wai would be minor. No mitigation would be required.

Standard site practice should be enforced to minimise the site runoff disturbance to the surroundings. Sedimentation during construction should be prevented by erection of sediment barriers and operation of siltation traps in works sites close to fishponds which could potentially be affected. Temporary work sites/disturbed areas immediately should be reinstated after completion of the construction works. The work site boundaries should be checked regularly to ensure that they are not exceeded and that no damage occurs to surrounding areas.

16.5.2 Ngau Tam Mei and San Tin Areas (2A-2T and 2B-1T)

16.5.3 Lau Fau Shan and Mong Tseng Areas (2A-3T)

No adverse temporary or permanent impacts of the proposed project to the existing capture fisheries and mariculture near Lau Fau Shan are expected. No impact mitigation would be required.

16.5.4 Shap Pat Heung Area (2B-2T)

No mitigation measure is required as no direct or indirect impacts are anticipated.

16.6 Impact Identification and Evaluation for Operational Phase

No operational phase impacts are expected to aquaculture fisheries resources and operations as a result of the operation of the sewerage system and pumping stations.

16.7 Impact Avoidance and Mitigation Measures for Operational Phase

No mitigation measure is required as no operational phase Impacts are expected.

From the information presented above, no adverse fisheries impact associated with the proposed project is expected. An evaluation of the impact in accordance with the EIAO-TM Annex 9 is presented in Table 16.2.

Table 16.2: Evaluation of fisheries impacts in accordance with EIAO-TM Annex 9

Impacts	Criteria
Impacts	Nature of impact	Size of affected area	Loss of fisheries resources/ production	Destruction and disturbance of nursery and spawning grounds	Impact on fishing activity	Impact on aquaculture activity
Tin Shui Wai and San Wai Areas (Alternative 2A-1T)
Construction phase
Land work area	Permanent loss of part of a fishpond due to conscturction of sewers	0.05 ha of active fishpond to be resumed	About 0.05 ha fishpond area will be lost.	No impact on nursery and spawning grounds would be caused.	NA	0.05 ha of fishpond in San Wai would be affected by the project.
Land work area	Temporary loss of 0.20 ha of fishpond area due to the need of works areas	0.20 ha of active fishpond to be temporary occupied	About 0.20 ha fishpond area will be temporary lost.	No impact on nursery and spawning grounds would be caused.	NA	0.20 ha of fishpond areas in Shan Pui would be temporarily affected by the project.
Land work area	Site runoff	5 active fishponds and 2 abandoned fishponds are potentially subject to site runoff	NA	No impact on nursery and spawning grounds would be caused.	NA	Water quality inside fishponds might be affected
Operational phase
Sewage Alignment	Permanent occupation of fishponds.	0.05 ha of active fishpond	About 0.05 ha fishpond area will be lost.	No impact on nursery and spawning grounds would be caused.	NA	Permanent loss of 0.05 ha of fishpond in San Wai
Ngau Tam Mei and San Tin Areas (2A-2T and 2B-1T)
Construction phase
Land work area	Site runoff	7 active fishponds and 2 abandoned fishponds are potentially subject to site runoff	NA	No impact on nursery and spawning grounds would be caused.	NA	Water quality inside fishponds might be affected
Operational phase
No impact	NA	NA	NA	NA	NA	NA
Lau Fau Shan and Mong Tsang Areas (2A-3T)
Construction phase
Land work area	Site runoff	1 active fishponds and 2 abandoned fishponds are potentially subject to site runoff	NA	No impact on nursery and spawning grounds would be caused.	NA	Water quality inside fishponds might be affected
Operational phase
No impact	NA	NA	NA	NA	NA	NA
Shap Pat Heung Area (2B-2T)
Construction phase
No impact	NA	NA	NA	NA	NA	NA
Operational phase
No impact	NA	NA	NA	NA	NA	NA

Although there are a number of concurrent projects that are currently implemented or planned, each project will provide its own mitigation measures. Cumulative impacts predicted to arise from the proposed project in conjunction with concurrent projects are not expected to result in greater adverse impacts to fisheries sensitive receivers than would impacts arising from the concurrent projects independently.

There are no residual impacts expected to occur to aquaculture fisheries as a result of the construction and operation of the proposed sewerage system and pumping stations.

As direct impacts to fishponds are predicted to be minimal while the indirect impacts during construction phase to be minor, the development of a monitoring and audit programme to assess the effects of the proposed project on fisheries is not considered necessary. Monitoring and audit activities designed to detect and mitigate any unacceptable impacts to water quality will also serve to protect against temporary unacceptable impacts to fisheries resources.

Deep Bay is facing long-term pollution problems which threaten the sensitive ecosystem in Deep Bay. HKSAR Government is planning to substantially reduce pollution loadings in Deep Bay. Under the Yuen Long/Kam Tin Sewerage Master Plan, sewage networks will be provided to unsewered villages and new developments, and sewage effluents from Yuen Long and Kam Tin will be transported out of Deep Bay to the better flushed water in Urmston Road for disposal (EPD 2001). The proposed project is an important component of the Plan.

Though Grade A active fishponds were identified within the assessment area with the majority concentrated to the Shan Pui, Nam Sang Wai, Tai Sang Wai and San Tin, the majority of assessment area appears to be degraded through urbanisation and development. None of the sewer alignment or the pumping station locations would constitute permanent direct impacts to any Grade A active fishponds. Only a fraction (0.05 ha) of a Grade C fishpond in San Wai would be subject to direct loss. Potential impacts to fisheries resources and operations may arise from permanent loss of fishponds. Due to the small percentage compared to the overall resources in Hong Kong, permanent losses of fisheries resources due to the project are predicted to cause minimal impacts to HKSAR fisheries. The impact is minimal and acceptable.

A total area of 0.20 ha will be temporarily occupied at three Grade A fishponds at Shan Pui during the construction phase. These fishponds will be reinstated after the construction works and thus the impact is minor and acceptable.

Based on the above impact assessment, no unacceptable impacts to aquaculture fisheries resources and operations are expected to occur as a result of the construction and operation of the proposed sewerage system and pumping stations.

Package	AML ID	EIA ASR Ref	Description	Land Uses	Approx. Distance to Sewer/Pumping Station (m)
Tin Shui Wai Area (2A-1T)	AM1	AT11	Tin Wah Estate, Wah Long House	R	26
	AM2	AT21	Jade Court, Block A	R	15
	AM3	AT15	Maywood Court, Block 8	R	32
	AM4	AT29	Dunwell Group	C	53
Lau Fau Shan Area (Alternative 2A-3T)	AM5	AL01	Deep Bay Road, workshop	C	17
	AM6	AL07	San Hing Tseun, No.37	R	16
	AM7	AL13	Tin Ying Road, Interin Housing, Block 2	R	128
	AM8	AL24	Mong Tseng Tseun, No.1	R	18
Ngau Tam Mei and San Tin Areas (2A-2T and 2B-1T)	AM9	AN02	Kam Pok Road, Man Yuen Chuen No.19	R	12
	AM10	AN10	Castle Peak Raod Tam Mei, village house	R	32
	AM11	AN15	Ngau Tam Mei, village house	R	25
	AM12	AN23	Castle Peak Road Mai Po, No.55, Koon Ying School	G/IC	18
	AM13	AN29	Castle Peak Road San Tin No.128/ Future School	G/IC	36
	AM14	AN40	Fan Tin Tseun, Lun Fung Ming Ancestral Hall	G/IC	11
	AM15	AN46	Ka Lung Road, village house	R	10
	AM16	AN51	Ka Lung Road, No.54, San Tin Barrack	G/IC	16
Shap Pat Heung Area (2B-2T)	AM17	AS04	Sha Ha Tseun, No.548	R	26
	AM18	AS17	Muk Kiu Tau Tseun, No.1	R	18
	AM19	AS23	Pak Sha Tseun, No.62	R	32
	AM20	AS25	Wong Nai Tun Tseun, No.47C	R	16
	AM21	AS36	Shun Ching San Tseun, No.211	R	12
	AM22	AS40	Shui Tsiu San Tseun, No.181	R	19
	AM23	AS52	Shung Ching San Tseun	R	20
	AM24	AS64	Tai Kei Leng, No.702	R	13
	AM25	AS70	Tong Tau Po Tseun, No.1	R	24

Package	NML ID	EIA NSR Ref	Represent No of Dwelling in the area	Remark/Description
Tin Shui Wai Area (2A-1T)	NM1	NT08	9	-
	NM2	NT09	-	school
	NM3	NT15	256	-
	NM4	NT21	3	-
Lau Fau Shan Area (Alternative 2A-3T)	NM5	NL03	-	-
	NM6	NL08	15	-
	NM7	NL13	3	-
	NM8	NL22	6	-
Ngau Tam Mei and San Tin Areas (2A-2T and 2B-1T)	NM9	NN02	42	-
	NM10	NN09	21	-
	NM11	NN14	3	-
	NM12	NN23	87	-
	NM13	NN27	12	-
	NM14	NN29	3	-
	NM15	NN30	-	-
	NM16	NN35		-
	NM17	NN40	12	-
	NM18	NN46	6	-
	NM19	NN51	9	-
Shap Pat Heung Area (2B-2T)	NM20	NS01	3	-
	NM21	NS11	3	-
	NM22	NS17	3	-
	NM23	NS21	3	-
	NM24	NS26	12	-
	NM25	NS31	6	-
	NM26	NS35	6	-
	NM27	NS40	15	-
	NM28	NS46	15	-
	NM29	NS51	9	-
	NM30	NS52	12	-
	NM31	NS54	3	-
	NM32	NS60	3	-
	NM33	NS64	12	-
	NM34	NS72	21	-
	NM35	NS37b	12	-
	NM36	NS42a	9	-
	NM37	NS70a	3	-
	NM38	NS49b	-	School