The first batch of simplified public housing applications opened today, underscoring a pivotal move by the Housing Department to alleviate Hong Kong's housing crunch. Housing Director Stanley Ho announced on social media that Deputy Director Vincent Tai, Legislative Council Member Yuen Man-yu, and Kwun Tong District Council members visited the "Joyous Home" transitional housing project managed by the Kowloon Lees Shau Kee School, detailing the government's strategies to tackle the current housing shortage through simplified public housing and transitional housing.

Stanley Ho highlighted that several transitional housing projects are expected to be completed in the next six months, with approximately 4,400 units of simplified public housing scheduled to be gradually completed between the first quarter of next year and the 2026/27 fiscal year. These units, located in Yuen Long Yau Tong Road and Ngau Tau Kok Choi Hing Road, will range in rent from HKD 740 to HKD 2,650 per month, aiming to provide affordable housing options for citizens who have been waiting for public housing for three years or more. The application deadline is set for July 15, with early submissions receiving priority processing.

Internet

Vincent Tai urged citizens to seize the opportunity and submit applications promptly to ensure they do not miss out on the chance to enhance their living environment. He emphasized that this is not only about improving personal living conditions but also a crucial step towards planning for a better future.

In addition to simplified public housing, Stanley Ho revealed that the Housing Department has actively engaged in the work of the "Tackling Subdivided Unit Problems" task force to improve living conditions for residents in subdivided units. The task force recently held two meetings with representatives from 37 non-governmental organizations to discuss strategies and methods for addressing subdivided unit issues. It also met with the Estate Agents Authority to solicit suggestions and feedback on resolving subdivided unit problems.

These initiatives by the Housing Department reflect the Hong Kong government's determination and efforts to address housing issues, especially against the backdrop of a tense housing market and increasingly pressing living quality concerns. Through expanding simplified public housing and improving subdivided units, the government aims to effectively alleviate housing pressures, enhance citizens' quality of life, and promote social stability and development.