MTR West Island Line
The MTRC issued a press release (pdf) highlighting their green light from the Government to proceed with a detailed proposal for the scope, cost and implementation of the West Island Line.
The West Island Line is an extension to the MTR Island Line and includes the addition of three more stations to the west of the existing Sheung Wan station. The additional stations are Sai Ying Pun, University and Kennedy Town.
The new line, once completed will provide a great boost to the station areas and neighbourhoods in the vicinity and should lead to an increase in property prices in the area.
Timeline for Completion
According to the timeline provided by the MTRC, the construction work will begin in 2009 and is expected to be completed by 2013-14.
New West Island Stations
Sai Ying Pun
Sai Ying Pun station will be the first station beyond the existing Sheung Wan station. The below image shows the proposed station exits for Sai Ying Pun Station, including an exit on Bonham Road near the intersection of Park Road and Bonham Road.
University
The University site will provide direct MTR access to the University of Hong Kong and the surrounding residential areas.
Kennedy Town
Kennedy site will be the most westerly station on the MTR Island Line.
Existing buildings affected by the West Island Line Extension
Inevitably, there will be some impact on existing public and private land and buildings. Apart from the site access and construction impact, the following will be affected:
- Kennedy Town Swimming Pool
- David Trench Rehabilitation Centre
- Centre Street Cooked Food Centre
- Whitty Street Public Toilet
- Sai Woo Lane football field and playground
- Hill Road sitting out area
- Part of the King George V Memorial Park
- Forbes Street Playground
Property market impact
From the point of view of an investor, the areas to be serviced by the new MTR West Island line will become more convenient to the business districts of Central, West Kowloon, Admiralty and Wanchai/Causeway Bay. Kennedy Town will enjoy the easier accessibility and demand for property from end-users should increase.
An important element will be the Sai Ying Pun MTR entrance on Bonham Road in Mid-levels West. This will provide MTR access to those living around Park Road, Babington Path, Lyttelton Road and the western end of Conduit Road. Currently, Bonham Road and Caine Road are congested during peak hours so the West Island Line should help to relieve some of this pressure.