9 Landscape and Visual Impact

9.1 Project Background

9.1.1 An application (No. ESB-317/2019) for an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study brief under section 5(1)(a) of the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO) was submitted on 23 May 2019 with a project profile (No. PP-582/2019) (the Project Profile).

9.1.2 The existing Diamond Hill Fresh Water and Salt Water Service Reservoirs (DHSRs) including Diamond Hill Fresh Water Service Reservoir (DHFWSR) and Diamond Hill hillsides to the north of Chuk Yuen (North) Estate in Wong Tai Sin.

9.1.3 Based on the preliminary design, when relocated, DHSRs will be constructed in a series of caverns linked by access tunnels and audits; and DHFWSR and DHSWSR will be constructed with two and three compartments respectively while the existing Diamond Hill Fresh Water and Salt Water Pumping Station will be split into Diamond Hill Fresh Water Pumping Station (DHFWPS) and Diamond Hill Salt Water Pumping Station (DHSWPS).

9.1.4 The proposed storage capacities of the relocated DHFWSR and DHSWSR are approximately 10,000m³ and 19,000m³ respectively. The scope of the Project will also include a vehicular access and some ancillary facilities such as transformer room, switch room, emergency generator room, administration building, control room, ventilation building and pumping station control room.

9.1.5 After commissioning of the relocated DHSRs, the operation of the existing DHSRs and the associated facilities will be terminated under the Project. The subsequent demolition and termination of operation at the existing DHSRs will be carried out by other government departments.

9.1.6 The study is a Designated Project (DP) under Item Q.2, Part I of Schedule 2 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance, "Underground Rock Caverns", The alternative options/design/alignments for the Project considered are discussed in Section 2 of this EIA report.

9.1.7 This Section presents the potential landscape and visual impact associated with the Project.

9.2 Key Development Component

9.2.1 The project comprises of the following proposed above-ground structure and temporary works area.

Table 9.1 Description of Key Development Components

Components	Descriptions
Components that lead to permanent loss of landscape cover
Ancillary Building	Facilities such as transformer room, switch room, emergency generator room, ventilation building and pumping station control room will be constructed near the portal to provide electricity and ventilation to the caverns and tunnel.
Re-provision of Access Road	As the original access road to the Lion Rock Park Transit Nursery will be occupied by the ancillary building, a new access road will be constructed to substitute the existing access road.
Slope stabilisation	The proposed tunnel portal and ancillary building are situated on an existing vegetated slope. Slope stabilisation is required.
Components that lead to loss of landscape cover subject to reinstatement
Water main laying works	The water main laying works transport fresh and salt water between the Wong Tai Sin urban areas and the tunnel portal.
Temporary storage	The area is currently the Lion Rock Park Transit Nursery, which will be temporarily used for storing construction materials and equipment. It will be handed back to LCSD after completion of construction.
First 40m of underground tunnel from portal	Open cut method will be adopted after evaluation of geological conditions.
Components that incur negligible loss of landscape cover
Underground tunnels and adits except the first 40m from portal	It serves as the normal vehicular access for the operation and maintenance of the service reservoirs. The tunnel will consist of two traffic lane in opposite direction and will also be an emergency vehicular access (EVA) as one of the fire services provisions.
Underground caverns	It is proposed to accommodate both fresh water and salt water service reservoirs and pumping stations. The fresh water and salt water service reservoirs would be divided into two and three compartments respectively in order to facilitate future maintenance.
Construction of the relocated DHSRs and associated pumping stations	According to the layout recommended in the Feasibility Study, the fresh water and salt water service reservoirs contains two and three compartments respectively in order to facilitate future maintenance

9.2.2 Demolition of existing facilities and construction of infrastructures at the released site are not included in the Project and will be carried out by other parties. Details may refer to Chapter 1.

9.2.3 Details of key development components shall refer to Chapters 1 and 2 of the EIA.

9.3 Relevant Legislations, Standards & Guidelines

9.3.1 This Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment has been conducted with reference to the local legislation, guidelines, plans and relevant studies as follows:

Environmental Impact Assessment

· Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (Cap.499);

· Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance - Technical Memorandum on EIA Process (EIAO-TM), particularly Annexes 10 and 18;

· Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance Guidance Note No.8/2010 – Preparation of Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance;

· Countryside Commission (1993) Landscape Assessment Guidance, UK Countryside Commission, Cheltenham;

Ordinances, Planning and Development Control

· Town Planning Ordinance (Cap. 131);

· Country Parks Ordinance (Cap. 208);

· Forest and Countryside Ordinance (Cap. 96) and Forestry Regulations;

· Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586);

· Hong Kong Planning and Standards & Guidelines (HKPSG), particularly Chapter 4, 10 and 11;

Tree, Landscape, Slope and Vegetation

· Study on Landscape Value Mapping of Hong Kong by the Planning Department (https://www.pland.gov.hk/pland_en/p_study/prog_s/landscape/e_index.htm), particularly the Landscape Character Map of Hong Kong; Development Bureau Technical Circular (Works) No. 4/2020 – Tree Preservation;

· Development Bureau Technical Circular (Works) No.5/2020 – Registration and Preservation of Old and Valuable Trees;

· Development Bureau Technical Circular (Works) No. 6/2015 – Maintenance of Vegetation and Hard Landscape Features;

· Development Bureau Technical Circular (Works) No.3/2012 – Site Coverage of Greenery for Government Building Projects;

· Development Bureau Technical Circular (Works) No.6/2011 – Maintenance of Man-made Slopes and Emergency Works to Deal with Landslides;

· GEO Publication No.1/2011 – Technical Guidelines on Landscape Treatment for Slopes;

· Guidelines promulgated by the Development Bureau at: https://www.greening.gov.hk/en/knowledge_database/technical_circulars.html;

· Guidelines on Aesthetic Design of Pumping Station Buildings promulgated by the Drainage Services Department in Oct 2006;

· Civil Engineering and Development Department Technical Circular No.06/2014 – Vetting Committee on Slope Appearance;

· HK Plant Database of Hong Kong Herbarium, Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (https://www.herbarium.gov.hk/Introduction.aspx)

· Agricultural, Fisheries and Conservation Department, Conservation Branch, Nature Conservation Practice Note No. 02/ June 2006 – Measurement of Diameter at Breast Height (DBH);

· Agricultural, Fisheries and Conservation Department Publication: Checklist of Hong Kong Plants 2012;

· Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation department publication “Rare and precious plants of Hong Kong 2003”;

· Agricultural, Fisheries and Conservation Department, Conservation Branch, Nature Conservation Practice Note No. 03 – The Use of Plant Names;

· Xing, et. al. (2000) Hong Kong Vascular Plants: Distribution and Status, Memoirs of the Hong Kong Natural History Society, No.23. The University of Hong Kong.

9.4 Landscape Assessment Methodology

9.4.1 The landscape assessment has been conducted in accordance with Appendix H of the EIA Study Brief No. ESB-317/2019 issued in June 2019 and with reference to the criteria and guidelines as stipulated in Annex 10 and 18 of EIAO TM and EIAO Guidance Note No. 8/2010 to include all areas within 500m from the boundaries of the Project Site (i.e. the 500m Study Area).

Identification and Examination of Baseline Landscape Resources and Landscape Character Areas

9.4.2 With reference to the most recently published EIA studies, literature, topographical maps and aerial photographs, available landscape resources (LRs) and landscape character areas (LCAs) within the 500m Study Area were identified and mapped on plan based on the government base map.

9.4.3 Supplementary field surveys were conducted by walking along representative transect routes to verify the extent and conditions of the identified LRs and LCAs. Broad-brush vegetation surveys were conducted to survey key vegetation species of the identified LRs. LCAs are broader categorizations than LRs that encompass a number of different LRs. Each LCA is a consolidated character derived from holistic reviews of various LRs that result in an overall impression of the landscape. LCAs in the 500m Study Area were mapped with reference to the Landscape Character Map of Hong Kong.

9.4.4 Possible landscape resources include physical landscape resources which are natural components of landscape such as soil, vegetation, water bodies (hydrology), geological and topographical features. In urban areas, man-made landscape resources include human/cultural landscape features such as parks, landscaped gardens, recreation areas, open spaces and community spaces. Urbanised areas with densely packed buildings and development infrastructure also comprise landscape resources such as buildings, retaining walls and formed slopes.

Broad-brush Tree Survey

9.4.5 A broad-brush tree survey was carried out in accordance with Appendix H of the EIA Study Brief to identify dominant tree species, maturity, rarity and any plant species of conservation importance, etc. which would be potentially affected by the Project. Trees located in areas subject to underground works (which have been confirmed not to affect the growth of trees) will not be included in the broad-brush tree survey.

9.4.6 Tree data was collected using a combination of the following methods in respect to site accessibility restrictions:

· Topographical survey and preliminary individual tree survey were carried out at the potential area(s) for construction of the tunnel portal and ancillary building;

· Aerial photographs and group tree survey followed by onsite verification at representative locations were carried out at the potential area(s) for slope stabilisation, temporary storage and proposed access road, because the accessibility of these locations have been restricted; and

· Group tree survey followed by onsite verification at representative locations were carried out at the potential area(s) for construction of the water main laying works.

Assessment of Sensitivity of LRs/ LCAs

9.4.7 The sensitivity of LRs and LCAs is rated as ‘high’, ‘medium’ or ‘low’ and are influenced by rarity, importance, quality and maturity, statutory or regulatory limitations/ requirements and the ability of LRs and LCAs to accommodate change.

Identification of Sources and Magnitude of Potential Landscape Impacts

9.4.8 Potential sources of landscape impacts could arise from both construction and operation of the Project. The magnitude of changes for assessing landscape impacts depends on the following criteria:

· Compatibility of the Project with the surrounding landscape;

· Duration of impacts under construction and operational phases;

· Scale of development; and

· Reversibility of change.

9.4.9 The magnitude of landscape change is classified as follows:

· Large: the landscape or landscape resources would suffer a major change;

· Medium: the landscape or landscape resources would suffer a moderate change;

· Small: the landscape or landscape resources would suffer slight or barely perceptible changes;

· Negligible: the landscape or landscape resources would suffer no discernible change.

Recommendation of Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures

9.4.10 Possible landscape mitigation measures may include minimisation of extent and duration of construction works, adoption of alternative design, and compensatory measures such as provision of landscape planting/ vegetation.

9.4.11 The following approaches, in order of priority, are advocated:

· Avoidance approach: to avoid direct impacts;

· Minimisation approach: to minimise impacts if avoidance is not possible; and

· Compensation approach: to compensate for significant residual impacts when there is no other alternative available.

Significance of Residual Landscape Impacts

9.4.12 The significance of landscape impacts before and after implementation of mitigation and enhancement measures are defined as follows:

· Substantial: Adverse/ Beneficial impact where the proposal would cause significant deterioration or improvement in existing landscape quality;

· Moderate: Adverse/ Beneficial impact where the proposal would cause a noticeable deterioration or improvement in existing landscape quality;

· Slight: Adverse/ Beneficial impact where the proposal would cause a barely perceptible deterioration or improvement in existing landscape quality;

· Insubstantial: No discernible change in existing landscape quality.

9.4.13 The degree of significance of landscape impacts has been derived from the combination of the magnitude of change and the sensitivity/ tolerance of the sensitive receivers to change as shown in Table 9.2 below.

Table 9.2 Matrix of Significance of Landscape and Visual Impacts

Magnitude of Change	Large	Moderate	Moderate/ Substantial	Substantial
	Medium	Slight/Moderate	Moderate	Moderate/ Substantial
	Small	Slight	Slight/Moderate	Moderate
	Negligible	Insubstantial	Insubstantial	Insubstantial
Impact Significance		Low	Medium	High
Impact Significance		Sensitivity

9.5 Visual Assessment Methodology

9.5.1 The Visual Impact Assessment has been conducted in accordance with Appendix H of the EIA Study Brief No. ESB-317/2019 issued in June 2019 and with reference to the criteria and guidelines as stipulated in Annex 10 and 18 of EIAO TM and EIAO Guidance Note No. 8/2010 to include all areas from which the Project could be seen.

Identification and Examination of Visual Envelope (VE) and Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs)

9.5.2 The area for studying visual impacts is defined as the Visual Envelope (VE) within which the proposed scheme/ Project can be viewed by local VSRs. The ZVI and the affected key groups of Visually Sensitive Receivers (VSRs) were initially identified from recently published EIA studies, topographical maps and aerial photographs, and the exact extent of ZVI and the visibility of local VSRs were further verified by site surveys.

9.5.3 The local VSRs to be affected by the Project are categorised as follows:

· Residential (R) who view the proposed Project from their homes;

· Functional (F) who view the proposed Project from their workplaces, institutional and educational buildings;

· Leisure (L) who view the proposed Project when they are enjoying leisure, cultural or recreational activities;

· Travelling (T) who view the proposed Project when they are travelling on vehicles.

Assessment of Sensitivity of VSRs

9.5.4 The sensitivity of VSRs to change is rated as ‘high’, ‘medium’ or ‘low’ as influenced by the value and quality of existing views, availability and amenity of alternate views, type and estimated population of VSRs, duration or frequency of view and degree of visibility.

Identification of Sources and Magnitude of Potential Visual Impacts

9.5.5 Potential sources of visual impacts could arise from both construction and operational phases of the Project. Visual impact assessment shall identify and predict the type and extent of visual impacts relating to visual compatibility with surroundings, visual obstruction and improvement of visual quality. The magnitude of changes for assessing visual impacts includes:

· Compatibility of the Project with the surrounding landscape;

· Duration of impacts under construction and operation phases;

· Scale of development;

· Reversibility of change;

· Viewing distance; and

· Potential blockage of view.

9.5.6 The magnitude of visual change is classified as follows:

· Large: the VSRs would suffer a major change in their viewing experience;

· Medium: the VSRs would suffer a moderate change in their viewing experience;

· Small: the VSRs would suffer a small change in their viewing experience;

· Negligible: The VSRs would suffer no discernible change in their viewing experience.

Identification of Potential Visual Mitigation and Enhancement Measures

9.5.7 Possible visual mitigation measures will primarily take the form of adoption of alternative design/ orientation to avoid or minimise visual obstruction resulting from the Project, careful consideration in colour and texture treatment of building features and finishes to soften the visual effects; and provision of green features and screening to neutralise the negative impacts from hard elements.

9.5.8 Computer-generated photomontages will be prepared based on photographs taken at selected vantage points (to be selected and confirmed based on ground-truth surveys) to illustrate visual impacts on key VSRs at four stages (existing conditions, day 1 without mitigation measures, day 1 with mitigation measures and Year 10 with mitigation measures) to demonstrate the comparison of scenarios and the effectiveness of proposed mitigation measures over time.

Significance of Residual Visual Impact

9.5.9 The significance of residual visual impacts before and after implementation of mitigation and enhancement measures are defined as follows:

· Substantial: Adverse/ Beneficial impact where the proposal would cause significant deterioration or improvement in existing visual quality;

· Moderate: Adverse/ Beneficial impact where the proposal would cause a noticeable deterioration or improvement in existing visual quality;

· Slight: Adverse/ Beneficial impact where the proposal would cause a barely perceptible deterioration or improvement in existing visual quality;

· Insubstantial: No discernible change in existing visual quality.

The degree of significance of visual impacts has been derived from the combination of the magnitude of change and the sensitivity of the visually sensitive receivers as shown in Table 9.2 similar to the matrix for determining significance of Landscape Impacts.

Overall Result of Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment

9.5.10 An overall assessment of the acceptability, or otherwise of the impacts according to the criteria in Annex 10 of the EIAO-TM has been conducted. The overall assessment has been made on the development based on the identified landscape and visual impacts described as follows:

· Beneficial: The impact is beneficial if the Project will complement the landscape and visual character of its setting, will comply with the relevant planning objectives and will improve overall landscape and visual quality

· Acceptable: The impact is acceptable if the assessment indicates that there will be no significant effects on the landscape, no significant visual effects caused by the appearance of the Project, or no interference with key views.

· Acceptable with Mitigation Measures: The impact is acceptable with mitigation measures if there will be adverse effects, but these can be eliminated, reduced or offset to a large extent by specific measures.

· Unacceptable: The impact is unacceptable if the adverse effects are considered too excessive and are unable to mitigate practically.

· Undetermined: The impact is underdetermined if significant adverse effects are likely, but the extent to which they may occur or may be mitigated cannot be determined from the study. Further detailed study will be required for the specific effects in question.

9.6 Review of Planning and Development Control Framework

9.6.1 A review of existing planning studies and documents has been undertaken as part of the baseline study to investigate the planned role of the Project site(s), the 500m Study Area and its landscape context. Such information provides the basis to evaluate whether the Project would fit into the development framework and be compatible with the planning intention and future outlook of the area. The locations of the areas are presented on Figure 9.1a and Figure 9.1b.

9.6.2 The review mainly covers two gazette approved Outline Zoning Plans, namely Wang Tau Hom & Tung Tau (KPA 8) Outline Zoning Plan No. S/K8/23 and Tsz Wan Shan, Diamond Hill & San Po Kong (KPA 11) Outline Zoning Plan No. S/K11/29. Table 9.3 indicates the land use zonings within the 500m Study Area and a brief description on their planning intention.

9.6.3 No structure or works is proposed within Lion Rock Country Park.

9.6.4 For proposed land use change either planning permission from TPB or the amendments to the concerned OZP(s) are required (i.e. rezoning).

Table 9.3 Review of Existing Planning and Development Framework within the 500m Study Area

Land Use Zonings	Approx. Area of the Land Use Zones within 500m Study Area (ha)	Design and Conservation Intention	Approx. Area of the Land Use Zones within Project Site excluding underground tunnel and cavern (sq.m.)	Potential Change to the OZP and the anticipated future outlook of the area due to the Project
Lion Rock Country Park Designated under Country Park Ordinance (Cap.208) on 24/06/1977
CP – Country Park	67.93	This zone is designated for the purposes of nature conservation, countryside recreation and outdoor education. Large development such as residential development is not compatible with the purposes of this zoning.	-	Nil.
Wang Tau Hom & Tung Tau (KPA 8) Outline Zoning Plan No. S/K8/23 Gazetted under Section 9(1)(a) on 13/03/2020
G/IC – Government, Institution or Community	12.51	This zone is intended primarily for the provision of Government, institution or community facilities serving the needs of the local residents and/or a wider district, region or the territory. It is also intended to provide land for uses directly related to or in support of the work of the Government, organizations providing social services to meet community needs, and other institutional establishments.	500	The Project has no contradiction with the planning intention of this zone. ‘Public utility installation’ and ‘service reservoir’ are listed in column 1 as ‘uses always permitted’.
GB – Green Belt	39.10	This zone is intended primarily for the conservation of the existing natural environment amid the built-up areas/at the urban fringe, to safeguard it from encroachment by urban type development, and to provide additional outlets for passive recreational activities. There is a general presumption against development within this zone. Development within this zone will be carefully controlled and development proposals will be assessed on individual merits taking into account the Town Planning Board Guidelines.	470 at temporary construction site along Lion Rock Road; 450 at temporary construction storage near Chuk Yuen Road	The proposed fresh and salt water service reservoirs exits as shown in Figure 9.1a and Figure 9.1b are within caverns and about 100m beneath the surface land, which are expected to have negligible impacts to the existing surface area covered with vegetation. As for the temporary construction storage near Chuk Yuen Road, the uses of ‘service reservoir’ and ‘public utility installation’ are listed in column 2, which implies that planning permission from the Town Planning Board is required.
O – Open Space	9.17	This zone is intended primarily for the provision of outdoor open-air public space for active and/or passive recreational uses serving the needs of local residents as well as the general public.	9,400	The proposed pumping station, portal and ancillary facilities of the fresh and salt water service reservoirs are mainly located at this zone. The uses of ‘service reservoir’ and ‘public utility installation’ are listed in column 2, which implies that planning permission from the Town Planning Board is required.
R(A) – Residential (A)	26.35	This zone is primarily for high-density residential developments. Commercial uses are always permitted on the lowest three floors of a building or in the purpose-designed non-residential portion of an existing building.	-	Nil.
Major Road and Junction	11.74	This zone is intended for transportation.	7,400	The Project has no contradiction.
Tsz Wan Shan, Diamond Hill & San Po Kong (KPA 11) Outline Zoning Plan No. S/K11/29 Gazetted under Section 9(1)(a) on 16/12/2016
G/IC – Government, Institution and Community	21.74	This zone is intended primarily for the provision of Government, institution or community facilities serving the needs of the local residents and/or a wider district, region or the territory. It is also intended to provide land for uses directly related to or in support of the work of the Government, organizations providing social services to meet community needs, and other institutional establishments.	2,250	The Project has no contradiction with the planning intention of this zone. ‘Public utility installation’ and ‘service reservoir’ are listed in column 1 as ‘uses always permitted’.
GB – Green Belt	32.14	The planning intention of this zone is primarily for the conservation of the existing natural environment amid the built-up areas/at the urban fringe, to safeguard it from encroachment by urban type development, and to provide additional outlets for passive recreational activities. There is a general presumption against development within this zone. Development within this zone will be carefully controlled and development proposals will be assessed on individual merits taking into account the Town Planning Board Guidelines.	-	Nil.
O – Open Space	6.50	This zone is intended primarily for the provision of outdoor open-air public space for active and/or passive recreational uses serving the needs of local residents as well as the general public.	-	Nil.
R(A) – Residential (A)	80.58	This zone is intended primarily for high-density residential developments. Commercial uses are always permitted on the lowest three floors of a building or in the purpose-designed non-residential portion of an existing building.	400	The Project has no contradiction with the planning intention of this zone. ‘Government Use (not elsewhere specified)’ is listed in column 1 as uses always permitted.
Major Road and Junction	21.79	This zone is intended for transportation.	18,700	The Project has no contradiction.

9.7 Landscape Baseline Condition

Landscape Resources

9.7.1 Landscape resources (LRs) within the 500m Study Area were identified including a combination of mixed woodland, shrubland/grassland, slope vegetation, roadside vegetation, park, sitting-out area, playground, nursery, temple, urban development, construction site and village settlement. The locations of LRs are shown on Figure 9.2a and Figure 9.2b and their photographic record is shown on Figure 9.3a to Figure 9.3g. The following LRs are identified within the 500m Study Area and Table 9.4 describes the baseline condition of each of the identified LRs. Table 9.5 provides an assessment of the sensitivity of LRs.

Table 9.4 Baseline Conditions of Landscape Resources

ID	Landscape Resource	Sensitivity (High/ Medium/ Low)	Baseline Conditions
1.1	Roadside Vegetation	Medium	This LR is formed by typical roadside amenity planting including trees, shrubs and herbs along urban roadside, planters, central dividers and tree pits. The majority of trees are amenity species such as Aleurites moluccana, Bombax ceiba, Tabebuia chrysantha and Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. cuningiana and some native trees such as Ficus microcarpa. Common roadside shrub species are planted including Schefflera arboricola, Duranta erecta, Ixora sp., Cordyline fruticosa, etc. The condition and amenity value of the existing vegetation within the area are fair. The trees are relatively young and contribute to the local urban landscape. Given its medium amenity value, medium quality and tolerance to accommodate change, this LR is considered to have a Medium sensitivity.
1.2	Engineered Slope (Vegetated)	Medium	This LR is formed by typical engineered slopes with some landscape treatment and/or self-seeded vegetation in the urban context. As Wong Tai Sin District is built along hillslopes, numerous engineered slopes are observed and are fragmented across the community. Key vegetation communities on engineered slopes commonly include plantation trees such as Acacia confusa, Acacia mangium, Ficus religiosa, Macaranga tanarius and some self-seeded vegetation such as Leucaena leucocephala and Broussonetia papyrifera. The vegetation on modified slopes enhances the dull appearance of concrete finish and provides a green backdrop for adjacent development. Without active management, the condition of vegetation is poor to fair within the LR. Given its medium quality and medium ability of accommodate change; the sensitivity of this LR is considered Medium.
1.3	Mixed Woodland at Lion Rock	High	This LR is formed by the mixed woodland in Lion Rock Country Park and adjacent green belt area that contributes to the extensive landscape backdrop of Wong Tai Sin District. The upper storey of the woodland is dominated by mature plantation species like Acacia confusa (approx. 300mm-800mm DBH), which is common in the early stages of afforestation in Hong Kong. The understorey comprises a variety of native species, including Psychotria asiatica, Mallotus paniculatus, Sterculia lanceolata, Aporosa dioica and Litsea glutinosa. Footpaths within this LR are frequently travelled by dwellers during weekends. Given a combination of factors such as its high amenity value, its contribution to the landscape context and amenity of the community; its maturity and low tolerance to change this LR is considered to have High sensitivity.
1.4	Shrubland/ Grassland at Lion Rock	High	This LR is located on Lion Rock Country Park and owns the infamous Lion Rock landscape that is commonly referred to as the symbolic representation of Hong Kong. It comprises common shrub species including Rhodomyrtus tomentosa, Rhus chinensis and Melastoma sanguineum. The vegetation cover is thinner and less complex in structure when compared with the mixed woodland. Given its high importance combined with a high cultural value and low ability to accommodate change, it is considered High in sensitivity.
1.5	Lion Rock Park Transit Nursery	Low	This LR is a piece of flat land formed by cutting an existing hillslope near the Lion Rock Park. Most vegetation within the LR are potted plants in the nursery. This LR comprises amenity plantings like Bauhinia x blakeana and some self-colonised plants like Sterculia lanceolata. Given the low quality and high tolerance of this LR to accommodate change, this LR is considered to have Low sensitivity.
1.6	Registered Old and Valuable Tree	High	This LR at Muk Lun Street Playground was registered as LCSD WTS/8 OVT since 8 Sep 2004. It is a Ficus microcarpa tree of large size: DBH 1835mm, Height 15m, Crown Spread 24m. Several lignified stems grown from top reaching the ground provide extra structural support for the large tree. The health and condition of the tree is fair and the amenity is good. Given its high maturity, high quality and low tolerance to change, it is considered to have High sensitivity.
1.7	Important Tree	High	This LR refers to the existing trees that are of relatively larger tree sizes and good amenity value in the local landscape context, including species like Ficus microcarpa and Ficus elastica. No Important Tree is surveyed within project site. Given their high quality, high maturity and low tolerance to accommodate change, it is considered to have High sensitivity.
2.1	Urban Development	Low	This LR comprises buildings that serve residential, commercial and institutional purposes, well-paved surfaces and private landscape areas in the district. The area has a high density of urban development that is manifested in its compact form of urban fabric. This is a typical urban landscape commonly found in Hong Kong that has a high ability to accommodate change. The landscape could be recreated under redevelopment or other urban development. The sensitivity is considered Low.
2.2	Construction Site at Lung Cheung Road	Low	Construction activities are in progress in this LR in New Kowloon Inland Lot No.6579 at the Junction of Lung Cheung Road and Lion Rock Tunnel Road. This LR is anticipated to become a luxury private residential development in the future. The current landscape quality is poor as it is under site formation stage. Given the low quality, low rarity, local importance and high ability for the LR to accommodate change, it is considered Low in sensitivity.
2.3	Chuk Yuen United Village Settlement	Medium	This LR comprises a group of squatter houses with decades of history and some low-rise settlements located next to Lung Cheung Road. Typical village plantings comprise mainly fruit trees such as Clausena lansium, Dimocarpus longan and Litchi chinensis are planted alongside with several self-seeded colonised plants like Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa and Caryota mitis. The rural characteristics of this LR makes it stands out from its surrounding Wong Tai Sin urban settlements. Given a combination of the maturity of this LR, its medium quality and its medium tolerance to accommodate change it is considered to have a Medium sensitivity.
3.1	Tsz Wan Shan Road Sitting Out Area	Medium	This LR is a narrow roadside sitting out area with some seatings. Two parallel rows of over-12m-tall Aleurites moluccana provides shades and contribute to the local landscape environment. There were also some amenity planters with species such as Duranta erecta,etc. Given the medium quality, medium abilit to accommodate change and medium maturity, it is considered to have Medium sensitivity.
3.2	Tsz Wan Shan Estate Central Playground	Medium	This LR is a relatively large public park in Tsz Wan Shan community that comprises 2 soccer pitches, a basketball court, a roller skating rink, children play area, sitting out area and amenity planting including Bauhinia x blakeana, Ficus microcarpa, Duranta erecta, Caryota mitis, etc. Given the local importance, medium quality and medium ability to accommodate change, it is considered to have Medium sensitivity.
3.3	Sitting-out Area near Tsz Wan Shan Shopping Centre	Medium	This LR is an elevated public space and a small outdoor theatre located adjacent to Tsz Wan Shan Shopping Centre. This LR is predominantly paved and comprises tables, seats, pavilions and some amenity vegetation. Given the medium quality and medium tolerance to accommodate change, it is considered to have Medium sensitivity.
3.4	Wong Tai Sin Service Reservoir Playground	Medium	This LR is a recreational playground located closely with the Wong Tai Sin Service Reservoir infrastructure. It comprises a football field and some exercise equipment. Located near the Lion Rock mixed woodland, this LR comprises amenity vegetation like Aleurites moluccana, Liquidambar formosana and some self-seeded vegetation like Bambusa sp., Sterculia lanceolata, etc. Given its medium quality and medium maturity, it is considered to have Medium sensitivity.
3.5	Po Kong Village Road/ Shung Wah Street Sitting-out Area	Medium	This LR is a small, sloped sitting out area located near the Home Affairs Department Tsz Wan Shan (South) Estate Community Centre. It comprises a pet corner and vegetation including Roystonea regia, Ixora sp., Schefflera arboricola etc. Given its medium quality and medium maturity, it is considered to have Medium sensitivity.
3.6	Fung Tak Estate Playground	Medium	This LR refers to the series of ball courts in Fung Tak Estate including basketball court, soccer pitch and surrounding landscape areas. Plant species such as Livistona chinensis, Murraya paniculata and Schefflera arboricola are observed. Given the medium quality of the landscape and medium ability to accommodate change, it is considered Medium in sensitivity.
3.7	Fung Tak Park	High	This LR is characterised by its traditional Chinese-style elements like pavilions, rockscapes and patterned fencing combined with the novel 'Journey to the West'-themed furniture, children playground and fountain. A wide range of amenity planting were observed and are mostly in good quality. Given the high quality of the park, medium importance and maturity, medium ability to accommodate change and a district scale of significance, this LR is considered High in sensitivity.
3.8	Lung Cheung Road North/ Po Kong Village Road Sitting out Area	Medium	This LR comprises seatings, exercise equipment and a number of amenity planting, including a group of Archontophoenix alexandrae that allows passive recreation. The overall landscape quality is medium and the maturity and rarity is also medium. Given its medium ability to accommodate change, this LR is considered Medium in sensitivity.
3.9	Po Kong Interchange Rest Garden	Low	This LR is mostly a pathway surrounded by vegetation at the urban fringe of Wong Tai Sin and Diamond Hill urban areas, next to the busy highway Lung Cheung Road. A group of tall trees and palms like Roystonea regia, Archontophoenix alexandrae, Livistona chinensis and Lagerstroemia speciosa created a local screening effect. The absence of seatings or resting facilities and the proximity to major highway contribute to its rare occupation by public. Considering its medium quality, local significance and medium ability to accommodate change, it is considered Low in sensitivity.
3.10	Muk Lun Street Playground	Medium	This LR comprises ball courts, garden and sittings. A wide range of amenity planting are observed including Bougainvillea spectabilis, Cinnamomum burmanii, Loropetalum chinense, Bombax ceiba, Duranta erecta and Ailanthus fordii. Given the medium quality, medium maturity and medium ability to accommodate change, this LR is considered Medium in sensitivity.
3.11	Lung Chui Yuen Stanley Ho Park	Medium	The LR adopts traditional Chinese garden design elements including framed views and alternate concealment and exposure. A range of amenity planting like Podocarpus macrophyllus, Alpinia zerumbet and Delonix regia are observed. Despite located within an estate, this park is open for general public. Considering the medium quality, medium importance and the local importance, this LR is considered Medium in sensitivity.
3.12	Wong Tai Sin Square	Medium	This LR is a well-paved open space with a small outdoor theatre. Amenity planting including Juniperus chinensis, Podocarpus chinensis, Rhododendron sp., Bougainvillea spectabilis and Loropetalum chinense are observed. Given the medium quality, local significance and medium tolerance to accommodate change, it is considered Medium in sensitivity.
3.13	Morse Park	Low	Morse Park is a large recreational infrastructure. This LR within the 500m Study Area is a very minor portion of the Park that is under rehabilitation. Some retained vegetation are observed including Livistona chinensis, Juniperus chinensis and Aleurites moluccana. Given the high ability to accommodate change and low quality and maturity, this LR is considered Low in sensitivity.
3.14	Sitting Out Area next to Wing Kwong College Bustop	Low	Situated along the busy highway Lung Cheung Road, this LR experiences intense dust impact and is partially shaded by adjacent tall trees. Vegetation in this LR is under fairly poor conditions and some are withered. The species are mostly horticultural species like Cordyline fruticosa which is common in urban areas. Given the low quality and rarity and high tolerance to accommodate change, this LR is considered Low in sensitivity.
3.15	Ma Chai Hang Playground	Medium	Located next to a housing estate this LR comprises seatings, jogging trail and amenity plantings like Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. cumingiana, Spathodea campanulata and Livistona chinensis. Given the medium quality and maturity of landscape and the medium tolerance to accommodate change, this LR is considered Medium in sensitivity.
3.16	Sitting Out Area next to Chui Chuk Garden	Medium	This LR is a narrow sloping open space located along the pedestrian path that provides seatings and children play area, serving the nearby residential area. Amenity plantings including Codiaeum variegatum, Schefflera elegantissima, Bauhinia variegata are observed. Given the medium quality and importance and medium ability to accommodate change, this LR is considered Medium in sensitivity.
3.17	Lung Cheung Road Bauhinia Garden	Low	This LR is a small sitting-out area comprising a few seatings, pavilion and amenity plantings like Bauhinia x blakeana, Bombax ceiba, Ixora sp and Aglaia odorata. Located next to the major carriageway Lung Cheung Road, this LR provides minimal shelter to dwellers. Given the medium quality, low rarity and low maturity of the landscape in addition to medium tolerance to accommodate change, this LR is considered Low in sensitivity.
3.18	Junction Road / Fu Keng Street Sitting-out Area	Medium	This LR is a rectangular-shaped sitting-out area along a small pedestrian path. A single strip of Lagerstroemia speciosa, Melia azedarach and Albizia lebbeck trees are planted. Some small planters of Schefflera arboricola and Ixora sp. are observed besides the trees. The linear shape of this LR evokes a balanced character of perspective. Given the medium quality and rarity of this LR and its medium ability to accommodate change, this LR is considered Medium in sensitivity.
3.19	Junction Road Park	High	This LR is a large park predominantly serving both active and passive recreational purposes. It comprises children play areas, pavilions, seatings, jogging trails, ball courts and washrooms. Amenity planting is widely cultivated with species like Plumeria rubra, Bombax ceiba, Grevillea robusta, Ixora sp. and Excoecaria cochinchinensis. It is a major park in the district serving the Lok Fu and Kowloon Tong community. Given its district scale of service, medium to high quality and maturity, this LR is considered High sensitivity.
3.20	Broadcast Drive Playground	Medium	This LR comprises a few seatings, a children playground and a few exercise equipment. Amenity trees like Ormosia pinnata, Aleurites moluccana and Bauhinia x blakeana are observed. Amenity plantings like Calliandra haematocephala are neatly pruned into geometric forms to form hedges. Given the medium quality, maturity and rarity of the garden and its medium ability to accommodate change, this LR is considered Medium in sensitivity.
3.21	Broadcast Drive Garden	Medium	Surrounded by several busy elevated highways, this LR comprises children play area, pavilions, seatings and a fountain. Amenity plantings like Livistona chinensis, Aleurites moluccana, Acacia confusa, Bauhinia x blakeana and Ilex rotunda are observed and are in fair conditions. This LR provides a refuge for people and that the running water of the fountain diffuses the noise generated from the highways. Given the medium quality and importance of landscape and medium ability to accommodate change, this LR is considered Medium in sensitivity.
3.22	Lion Rock Park Baseball Field 2	Medium	Located adjacent to the Lion Rock High Level No.2 Primary Service Reservoir, this LR is one of the five baseball fields in Hong Kong and is critical for the local baseball training. The major landscape is lawn area with some plantation trees surrounding the field like Acacia confusa in poor to fair conditions. Given the medium quality and district significance of the landscape, it is considered Medium in sensitivity.
3.23	Lion Rock Park	Medium	This LR is a recreational park with garden, barbecue facilities, archery, seatings and amenity plantings that allows both active and passive recreation. Amenity planting includes Delonix regia, Acacia confusa, Plumeria rubra, Phoenix roebelenii and Ficus microcarpa. The plantings are arranged in hierarchy and diligently designed. Given the high quality of the park and medium ability to accommodate change, this LR is considered Medium in sensitivity.
3.24	Fei Fung Street Sitting-out Area	Medium	This LR refers to a small sitting-out area within the highly urbanised Wong Tai Sin grids. A few trees are present including Ficus microcarpa, Livistona chinensis and Archontophoenix alexandrae. It provides seating and some exercise equipment that are especially favorable for elderly. Given the medium quality and local significance as well as the medium ability to accommodate change, this LR is considered Medium in sensitivity.
3.25	Fat Jong Temple	High	This LR is a traditional Buddhist temple located at Shatin Pass Road. It embodies traditional features of Chinese palace, such as red columns, beige walls, upturned eaves and red temple gates. Some plants are observed in the backyard of the temple including Macaranga tanarius. Given the high quality and low ability to accommodate change, it is considered to have High sensitivity.
3.26	Chiu Chow Po Hing Lin Fat She	High	Founded in 1939, this LR is a Lingnan-style temple with red-brick exterior and green tiles built on steep slope. It is known for organising various Chiu Chow-style religious activities. Some vegetation is observed grown on slope adjacent to the temple like Ficus religiosa. Given the high quality and low ability to accommodate change, it is considered to have High sensitivity.
3.27	Wong Tai Sin Temple	High	This LR is a well-known Taoist shrine and a popular tourist attraction. The temple is meticulously designed and furnished with various sculptures, calligraphy and art pieces. Its details reflect traditional Chinese beliefs, such as the 12 Chinese Zodiac and celestial stems. This LR is an important cultural heritage to Hong Kong. Given the high quality, important cultural significance and low ability to accommodate change, it is considered to have High sensitivity.

Table 9.5 Summary of Sensitivity of Landscape Resources

ID	LR	Quality (High/ Medium/ Low)	Importance and Rarity (High/ Medium/ Low)	Ability to Accommodate Change (High/ Medium/ Low)	Significance (Global / National / Regional/ District / Local)	Maturity (High/ Medium/ Low)	Sensitivity (High/ Medium/ Low)
1.1	Roadside Vegetation	Medium	Low	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
1.2	Engineered Slope (Vegetated)	Medium	Medium	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
1.3	Mixed Woodland at Lion Rock	High	Medium	Low	Local	High	High
1.4	Shrubland/ Grassland at Lion Rock	High	High	Low	District	High	High
1.5	Lion Rock Park Transit Nursery	Low	Medium	High	Local	Medium	Low
1.6	Registered Old and Valuable Tree	High	High	Low	Local	High	High
1.7	Important Tree	High	High	Low	Local	High	High
2.1	Urban Development	Medium	Low	High	Local	Medium	Low
2.2	Construction Site at Lung Cheung Road	Low	Low	High	Local	Low	Low
2.3	Chuk Yuen United Village Settlement	Medium	Medium	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
3.1	Tsz Wan Shan Road Sitting Out Area	Medium	Low	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
3.2	Tsz Wan Shan Estate Central Playground	Medium	Medium	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
3.3	Sitting-out Area near Tsz Wan Shan Shopping Centre	Medium	Low	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
3.4	Wong Tai Sin Service Reservoir Playground	Medium	Medium	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
3.5	Po Kong Village Road/ Shung Wah Street Sitting-out Area	Medium	Low	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
3.6	Fung Tak Estate Playground	Medium	Low	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
3.7	Fung Tak Park	High	Medium	Medium	District	Medium	High
3.8	Lung Cheung Road North/ Po Kong Village Road Sitting out Area	Medium	Medium	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
3.9	Po Kong Interchange Rest Garden	Medium	Low	Medium	Local	Medium	Low
3.10	Muk Lun Street Playground	Medium	Medium	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
3.11	Lung Chui Yuen Stanley Ho Park	Medium	Medium	Medium	Local	Medium	Medium
3.12	Wong Tai Sin Square	Medium	Low	High