Hong Kong preserves Fanling Golf Course and plans Victoria Park tennis court upgrade

The Hong Kong government has decided not to appeal a judicial review regarding the Fanling Golf Course, effectively ending a nearly 20-year dispute over land use. The decision to abandon plans to reclaim approximately 9 hectares of the course for public housing follows a court ruling that recognized the site's environmental and ecological value. Officials noted that the development of the Northern Metropolis will provide sufficient housing supply, making the reclamation of the historic course unnecessary.

In a related move to bolster the city's sports event economy, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Alice Mak announced plans to reconstruct and expand the Victoria Park tennis courts. The new facility is envisioned as an all-weather venue with a retractable roof to accommodate high-level international tournaments, such as ATP 500 or ATP 1000 events. Construction is expected to begin within three to four years, with the goal of minimizing impact on the adjacent swimming pool and football pitch. During the reconstruction period, major tennis events may be temporarily relocated to the Hong Kong Stadium.