Old Taipa set to be pedestrianized again for Labor Day holiday

The government has officially announced the creation of a temporary pedestrian zone in Taipa Old Village during mainland China’s five-day Labor Day holiday, from May 1 to 5.

It is estimated that 130,000 to 150,000 visitors and residents will explore the area during the period.

This will mark the fourth time the government has partnered with various community organizations to establish a pedestrian zone in Taipa Village.

Cheang Hio Man, acting director of the Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT), said at a Tuesday press conference that the government expects increased pedestrian and vehicular traffic in the zone during the holiday.

She noted that after evaluating previous pedestrian zone implementations and reviewing feedback from Taipa residents, schools, and businesses, the government has opted to reintroduce the scheme for the upcoming crowd surge.

During the Lunar New Year period (Jan. 29 to Feb. 4), the pedestrian zone recorded a daily average of 30,300 visitors, according to DSEDT.

As part of the festivities, a bazaar will be held daily from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the open-air car park opposite the old Iec Long Firecracker Factory. Art installations, live performances, and family-friendly workshops will also be featured to attract more visitors.

Cheang noted that the setup will be similar to that of the Lunar New Year, with enhanced public transport and signage, including the launch of special bus route 26AT, which will stop at “Estrada da Baía de Nossa Senhora da Esperança/Quartel” and “Pai Kok/Galaxy.”

Cheang highlighted that the temporary pedestrian zone has received widespread public support for improving safety and the business environment.

However, when asked about making the zone permanent during holidays, she emphasized that the government’s current goal is to enhance pedestrian safety and comfort while supporting local businesses.

She added that any decision to make the zone permanent would be made after thorough assessment, taking into account tourism development, residents’ daily routines, and the needs of nearby schools and businesses.