Hong Kong is set to enhance communal spaces for approximately 83,000 households residing in public rental estates, following 'well-being' design principles stated Housing Secretary Winnie Ho Wing-yin. She explained that 24 out of the city's 193 public rental estates have been chosen for the initial phase of this project. While some may find the guidelines abstract, the minister provided examples of potential improvements, such as enhancing lobby ventilation and adding more comfortable seating in common areas.

She explained in a recent media interview that in our understanding, well-being results from addressing small details and that these improvements might not be revolutionary but are about fine-tuning and executing them effectively. Ho stated that in March the  government-appointed consultants initiated discussions with residents to gather input on desired improvements, a dialogue set to continue until November.

The public rental estates, located in nine different districts and ranging in age from 10 to 61 years, were slated for renovations expected to conclude by 2027.These are not mere minor adjustments emphasized the minister. We've elevated standard building maintenance and repairs to a more substantial level, capable of enhancing both mental and physical well-being.

The forthcoming guidelines, set to be finalized next year, will encompass enhancements aimed at better connecting public spaces and improving the overall perception of specific districts. The design changes will also prioritize the needs of the elderly and promote physical activity.

The minister mentioned that the government intends to assess the scheme's effectiveness, possibly by distributing questionnaires to residents. One potential measure of success could involve determining if elderly tenants become more inclined to spend time outside their residences.

The expenses for these renovations will be covered by the Housing Authority's regular maintenance and improvement budget, which amounted to HK$4.6 billion (US$587 million) in the 2022-23 fiscal year. The minister clarified that there is no need to seek additional funding from the Legislative Council.

The authority anticipates that this budget will continue to rise, reaching HK$5.5 billion by 2026-27. Among the planned improvements, five estates will undergo extensive refurbishment, encompassing upgrades to recreational facilities and the efficient use of space. Ho mentioned that the five estates, with an age range of 40 to 45 years, could be considered as being in their "middle years," and as such, they wouldn't require additional renovations for approximately two decades. These refurbishments would also align with concurrent neighbourhood enhancement projects, such as the Drainage Services Department's plan to introduce viewing platforms and footpaths along the Tai Wai Nullah in Sha Tin.

She further noted that two of these five estates featured recreational amenities and shopping centres owned by private companies, namely Gaw Capital and Link REIT. Ho expressed her desire for the principles outlined in the new design guidelines to be applied in similar public-private partnerships for housing estates. Additionally, there are plans to increase the presence of flowers and green spaces in the remaining 19 estates.

According to Ho, authorities will undertake the repainting of the outer walls of ten estates and will reposition certain facilities to encourage residents to use them more effectively. This includes relocating benches from darker to brighter areas. These minor adjustments are expected to be finished by the end of the next year.

Ho mentioned that the government intends to relax regulations governing the use of outdoor spaces by tenants, enabling them to fully enjoy the benefits of these renovations. For instance, this could involve allowing residents to have picnics after removing fences around grassy areas. However, certain rules, such as the prohibition of keeping dogs in public flats, cannot be changed due to the need to consider the feelings and requirements of all tenants and the community, she explained. The minister expressed optimism that these guidelines could be implemented in future public housing estates, subsidized apartments, and starter homes.