Outdoor performance venue set for conversion into three-on-three basketball court

The outdoor performance venue in Cotai has been proposed for conversion into a simple three-on-three basketball court, with plans to open this quarter.

The Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) disclosed the proposal in a written response to lawmaker Wong Kit Cheng, stating that the measure aims to “better utilize the idle periods of the ‘performance venue.’” The authorities also announced a proposal for a parent-child sports activity space.

The three-on-three basketball court is expected to open in the first quarter of 2026.

According to a statement by the bureau, its president, Deland Leong, noted that the performance venue will include additional amenities such as seating areas, sunshades, nighttime lighting, and drinking water facilities. Upon opening, additional on-site staff will be deployed to ensure user safety, with further details to be announced in due course.

The bureau responded to Wong’s written inquiry about the possibility of adopting a “zoned leasing” model similar to that used at Hong Kong’s Victoria Park, which would allow local organizations to rent specific areas at reduced rates.

The bureau stated, “The government continuously listens to and incorporates opinions from all sectors of society, actively considering various measures to create better conditions for the multifunctional use of venues.”

The bureau further outlined short-, medium-, and long-term development strategies for the performance district. As noted, short-term measures will support the scaling and market-oriented development of the performing arts industry through the already implemented “30-day continuous rental scheme,” with plans to launch a public tender for the district’s operations by mid-year.

For medium- to long-term development, operations are expected to be outsourced next year, leveraging market flexibility and professional marketing to enhance operational efficiency, introduce specialized management teams, and expand diverse activities.