"The completion of the new Police Headquarters and the near completion of the New Territories South Regional Headquarters this year signify a new outlook of a modern Force which keeps abreast with the times," said Commissioner Lee Ming-kwai when officiating at the Topping-out Ceremony for the New Territories South Regional Headquarters and Operational Base Project in Tsuen Wan on December 6.

Commissioner Lee Ming-kwai and guests viewing a model of the New Territories South Regional Headquarters and Operational Base Project

Addressing a large gathering of guests, including representatives from the Architectural Services Department, Planning and Development Branch, New Territories South Region and the contractors, Mr Lee expressed his appreciation of the Project by saying that its smooth running underlines the concerted efforts and persistence of the Planning and Development Branch. With the Project Team's positive thinking and high standard of professionalism, the Finance Committee endorsed funds for the Project on May 10, 2002 despite the then prevailing economic climate. The construction work commenced in December 2002, and the building is due for completion in mid-2005.

"The new Complex will house the New Territories South Regional Headquarters and all its operational units under one roof at a geographically strategic location. This will facilitate command and enhance operational effectiveness and efficiency. Public access to police services will also be made easier," Mr Lee added.

The project has also adopted the "Design and Build" procurement approach - the first of its kind and is in line with the Government's outsourcing policy. All the users' requirements have been well defined and confirmed at an early stage of the project development, so that the chances of delay or interruption to the contract programme, caused by additional requirements, are largely minimised.

Features of the building include the functional development of two blocks - a 16-storey Tower Block (above ground with no basement) plus two levels of antenna gallery on the rooftop, and a six-storey Podium Block (car parking facilities, cum shooting range) topped with a suspended metal curved roof. With much consideration given to environmental friendly and intelligent designs, the Architectural Services Department and design consultants have introduced energy saving devices to the building. The whole project will ensure that the Force's commitment to wider technological applications and maximum efficiency has been put into practice.

Lastly, the Commissioner extended his heart-felt thanks to the relentless efforts made by the Architectural Services Department and Planning and Development Branch colleagues, as well as the co-operation of the contractors in ensuring that works are completed on schedule.

The building complex is targeted to become operational by the end of 2005.

Artist's impression of the 8th floor lift lobby of the New Territories South Regional Headquarters