TAC discusses expansion of NT taxi operating areas

Members of the Transport Advisory Committee (TAC) were briefed at its meeting today (January 7) on the proposed revision of permitted operating areas of New Territories (NT) taxis.

Members noted the Government's proposal to allow NT taxis to access Hong Kong Disneyland, the new air passenger terminal at SkyPlaza at the Airport and Hang Hau MTR Station.

"We welcome the proposed extension of permitted operating areas of NT taxis. The proposed extension will allow passengers from the NT to travel by taxi to new major infrastructure within the NT and to interchange with the MTR. The extension can also help provide more business opportunities for NT taxis," TAC Chairman Ms Teresa Cheng said.

The Transport Department consulted the urban, New Territories, and Lantau taxi trades on the proposed revision in early November 2004. The NT taxi trade welcomed the proposal and the urban and Lantau taxi trades did not raise any objection.

At the meeting, the Planning Department presented to the TAC a proposed Planning Framework for the Area Improvement Plan for Tsim Sha Tsui.

The TAC noted that the proposed Planning Framework consisted of enhancement of pedestrian linkages and circulation, introduction of pedestrian priority areas and improved streetscape design schemes. Some improvement projects were also proposed for early implementation, including those outside MTR station entrances at Haiphong Road, Granville Road and Hart Avenue. Members urged the Administration to minimise the impact on traffic and pedestrians in carrying out the improvement projects.

"TAC welcomes proposals to enhance the pedestrian environment in crowded urban areas. We hope the Administration will fully take into account the comments and views received during the public consultation period before finding the best way forward," Ms Cheng said.

TAC members also discussed the Administration's proposed measures to improve the regulation of non-franchised bus (NFB) operations. This arose from concern in the public transport trade that there has been an oversupply of non-franchised buses and that some operators have been providing unauthorised services.

"The TAC supports the revised proposed measures put forward by the Administration after its consultation with the trade between August and December last year. We note that the Administration has given due consideration to the concern expressed by the NFB trade. As now proposed, possible impact on existing legitimate NFB operation has been minimised.

"We consider that the proposed measures can improve the business opportunities and operating environment for both law-abiding NFB operators and regular public transport service providers by minimising unhealthy competition. Commuters can also benefit from a well-coordinated public transport system," Ms Cheng added.

Ends/Friday, January 7, 2005