The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors "Maintenance and Appreciation of Historical Buildings" Forum: Current Practices and Challenges in Built Heritage Conservation

2021-07-16

The "Maintenance and Appreciation of Historical Buildings" Forum organised by the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors (HKIS) was held on 29 June 2021 via webinar with the theme of "Current Practices and Challenges in Built Heritage Conservation". The Forum discussed the current situation of the conservation of historical buildings in Hong Kong, and explored solution to tackle the problems encountered by the owners of historical buildings while their buildings are undergoing maintenance.

Mr Ivanhoe CHANG, Commissioner for Heritage, Development Bureau, HKSAR Government was invited as the Guest of Honor. Other experienced experts in architecture, surveying and heritage conservation attended the Forum as speakers, including Ir Eric P W CHAN, Director of EPC Engineering Consultant Ltd.; Ir Dr CHAN Wai-tai, Director of W Consultants Limited; Sr Idi CHAN, Fellow Member of the HKIS; Mr FUNG Wai-keung, Director of Kam Wui Decoration Limited, Vice-Chairman of Historic Building Conservation Association, Part Time Instructor of Construction Industry Council; Mr Ivan HO Chi-ching, Conservation specialist; Mr Ben LO Yu-bun, Chief Assistant Secretary (Works) 2, Development Bureau, HKSAR Government; Mr Daniel MA, Chairman of Historic Building Conservation Association; and Ms WONG Lai-yin Idy, Head of Sustainable Living and Agriculture at the Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden Corporation.

Mr Ivanhoe CHANG said, "The successful implementation of conservation policies depends on the tripartile collaboration of the community, business sector and the Government, as well as the active participation of stakeholders and the general public. A balance should also be struck between development needs in the public interest, respect for private property rights and budgetary considerations.

We are pleased to see that public's awareness on heritage conservation has been greatly increased in recent years. We hope to strengthen public participation and to promote the preservation of Hong Kong’s historical buildings."

Sr Edwin TANG Hoi-kwan, President of the HKIS said, "Historic buildings are not solely architecture. They embody precious memories and culture of the previous generations and showcase the unique architectural features at the time. With the rapid development of modern society, we should explore the potential of modern technology in historical buildings preservation instead of abandoning these cultural treasures while pursuing continuous progress and innovation."

The videos of the forum are now available, you may watch the playback at the official YouTube channel "HKIS Heritage 賞.惜.舊築跡" (https://bit.ly/3xTmdo7)

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