Page 57 - URA Annual Report 2021-22

Not only are sites and structures preserved in URA’s urban renewal projects, but intangible heritage and local characteristics are also retained and enlivened through revitalisation, place-making and rebuilding community networks.
In 2021/22, URA continued to take forward the preservation- cum-revitalisation work, while making use of completed projects with preserved buildings/elements for place-making and community making purposes. Notably the Central Market which was opened to the public in August 2021 has quickly become an iconic landmark in the heart of the city, attracting over 10 million visitors so far.
Central Market (Grade III Historic Building)
Operated by the Chinachem Group under three key themes, namely ‘Approachable’, ‘Energetic’ and ‘Gregarious’, Central Market has been shaped into a ‘Playground for All’ to connect the community as well as the old and new generations. It provides venues for diversified uses including catering, retailing, performances, exhibitions, STEAM4 learning and start-up businesses, attracting over 10 million visitors since its opening in August 2021.
Subsequent to the completion of phase one of the revitalisation works last year, the second phase of works, including the new façade facing Des Voeux Road Central and the escalators to the first and second floors, was also finished in April 2022. This drew to a conclusion of all restoration and revitalisation works of Central Market and it is now fully opened for public enjoyment.
The preservation and revitalisation works of Central Market earned recognition by scooping various professional awards from The Hong Kong Institute of Architects, The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, the Hong Kong Institute of Planners and The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.
The Phase two works has furnished Central Market with a new façade facing Des Voeux Road Central and escalators, enhancing spaces and accessibility for public enjoyment.
4 STEAM refers to the areas of science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics.
URA ANNUAL REPORT 2021-22 51
Operating Review Corporate Sustainability Management Discussion and Analysis Projects at a Glance Corporate Governance