Attending the award presentation ceremony in London on December 3 (London time), the Deputy Director of Drainage Services, Mr Mak Ka-wai, said the relocation project is an innovative initiative that makes effective use of underground spaces and enhances the environment for the benefit of the community, and the award is a recognition of the department's efforts in promoting the sustainable development of Hong Kong.

The DSD launched a feasibility study for the project in 2012, confirming that after relocation of the Sha Tin Sewage Treatment Works to the caverns at Nui Po Shan of A Kung Kok, about 28 hectares of land with sea frontage can be released from the old site for other uses. It can also improve the living environment of the surroundings, bringing both social and environmental benefits.

The cavern design for the project is currently underway and scheduled for completion in 2017. The construction phase will follow.

For details of the award-winning projects, please visit the website of the NCE Tunnelling and Underground Space Awards 2015 (tunnellingawards.nce.co.uk).