Stories from Tai Po · Hong Kong

Property management firm Hopon Management estimates repair works at Wong Chi House will cost more than $30 million. The building is the only block in the Tai Po estate not damaged by the fire. Repairs are expected to take at least nine months to complete.

Deputy Chief Secretary Warner Chuk announced support measures for residents of two buildings in Tai Po following fatalities.

Authorities reported that close to 500 residents have returned to two blocks, Wang Chong and Wang Tao, at the Taipo estate to salvage belongings. The return process involves residents making long climbs to their homes following recent damage.

Approximately 75 percent of Wong Chi-kwok property owners have signed acceptance letters for the government's proposed buyout scheme. Wong Wai-lun announced that 99 percent of Wong Chi Kok estate owners have been contacted. The Hong Kong Housing Authority reported that its investigation team has contacted 99% of owners in the Wang Chi Kwok development. This follows a deadly fire at the block last November. Officials are asking homeowners to accept a buyout offer to join a long-term resettlement arrangement. Wong stated the government will use legislative processes if owners refuse the offer. Deputy Financial Secretary Wang Wai-lun stated that a 75 percent owner consensus is appropriate for the property buyout of buildings affected by a fire in Tai Po. The government will not force owners to sell or use legislation to seize units that refuse the arrangement.

The Hong Kong government is proposing a long-term residential arrangement for owners in the Tai Po area. A new housing proposal for Wangxi House in Hong Kong requires the agreement of 75% of homeowners to proceed. The Hong Kong government announced a buyout proposal for the Wong Tai Sin estate blocks at Wong Fau Court in Tai Po. For the proposal to proceed, 75 percent of homeowners at Wengie House must agree to the terms. Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong stated that residents must sign a letter of acceptance by the end of June to confirm their interest in selling. If at least 75% of owners confirm they will sell their property rights to the government by the end of June, the Bureau will open compensation schemes to residents of the seven other affected buildings.