1.1.1 The existing engineering infrastructure at Tung Chung New Town (TCNT) was completed in April 2003. The current population of TCNT is about 98,000 while the planned population is about 124,000. The Government has been planning to further develop the TCNT into a comprehensively planned new town with a larger population capacity and adequate local and regional community facilities.

1.1.2 The Planning Department and Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD) jointly commissioned the Planning and Engineering Study on the Remaining Development in Tung Chung – Feasibility Study (the P&E Study) in January 2012 to review the remaining development potential of TCNT. Following a three-stage public engagement exercise completed in October 2014, a development proposal of Tung Chung New Town Extension (TCNTE) including the Recommended Outline Development Plan, the major development parameters and land uses are formulated.

1.1.3 The proposed TCNTE will cover areas on the eastern and western flanks of the existing TCNT. It will provide about 49,600 residential flats for a population of about 145,500. It will also provide about 500,000 square metres (m²) gross floor area (GFA) for office use, 327,000 m² GFA for retail use and 50,000 m² GFA for hotel use.

1.1.4 Land has been reserved in the extension area for recreational educational and community uses such as sports ground, and post-secondary institution. At Tung Chung West, a channelized section of Tung Chung River at the northeast of Shek Lau Po together with the immediate upstream section up to Shek Mun Kap Road will be revitalized into a river park for recreational use with a view to enhancing and promoting water-friendly culture. Upon completion of the proposed TCNTE, the total population of Tung Chung will increase to about 269,500.

1.1.5 The proposed TCNTE was included in 2014, 2015 and 2016 Policy Addresses as a key land supply measure. The first population intake is targeted in 2024.

1.2 The Project

1.2.1 The scope of Works under this Project comprises:

i. Reclamation works for about 130 hectares (ha) of land including construction of associated seawall and eco-shoreline for the development of TCNTE at Tung Chung East (TCE) and a primary distributor road (Road P1);

ii. Site formation works for about 10 ha of land for the development of TCNTE at Tung Chung West (TCW);

iii. Engineering infrastructure works including roads, footbridges, drainage, sewerage, waterworks, sewage and salt water pumping stations, fresh water and salt water service reservoirs, and flood protection measures;

iv. Provision of new cycle tracks connection to the existing cycle track network;

v. De-channelization of the channelized portion of Tung Chung Stream and provision of a river park;

vi. Landscaping, reprovisioning and ancillary works; and

vii. Environmental mitigation measures including noise barriers for the works mentioned in (i) to (vi) above.

1.2.2 The development of Tung Chung New Town Extension (TCNTE), comprising Tung Chung East (TCE) and Tung Chung West (TCW), is a mega-scale and complex project aiming to provide land to meet the future housing economic and social development needs of Hong Kong. Due to the fact that the proposed works are geographically separated, the implementation of mega-scale Project is divided into two packages, namely TCE and TCW. In accordance with the tight delivery programme, the Project will be implemented in phases under separate contracts for the developments of TCE and TCW. This Plan is jointly prepared by two project teams (namely TCE & TCW) according to their construction programme and project location.

1.2.3 The Contract No NL/2020/02 – Tung Chung New Town Extension – Salt Water Supply System (i.e. Contract 2) at TCE has been awarded in June 2021. The main contractor for Contract NL/2020/02 is China Geo-Engineering Corporation (CGC).

1.2.4 The Contract No NL/2020/05 – Tung Chung New Town Extension – Site Formation and Infrastructure Works at Ma Wan Chung (i.e. Contract 5) at TCW has been awarded in May 2021. The main contractor for Contract No. NL/2020/05 is Build King – Richwell Civil Joint Venture (BKRCJV).

1.2.5 The Contract No NL/2020/06 – Tung Chung New Town Extension – Site Formation and Infrastructure Works at Tung Chung Valley, Phase 1 (i.e. Contract 6) at TCW has been awarded in May 2021. The main contractor for Contract No. NL/2020/06 is China Railway Group Limited (CREC).

1.3 Purpose of this Plan

1.3.1 This Plan is prepared for compliance with the Environmental Permit (EP) No. EP- 519/2016 clause 2.22 - Submission of Detailed Compensatory Woodland Planting Plan, and para. (e) of the Conditions of Approval (CoA) under Section 8(3) of the EIA Ordinance (letter ref: (37) in EP2/N9/S3/145 Pt.12 dated 08 April 2016).

1.3.2 To ensure and demonstrate that the proposed measures comply with the requirements, relevant sections of the Plan addressing the CoA and EP requirements are tabulated in Table 1.1 and Table 1.2 below:

Table 1.1 CoA Requirements

Requirements

Plan Section

(e) The Project Proponent shall submit a detailed Compensatory Planting Plan to the DEP for approval before commencement of construction works at Tung Chung West.

Qualified professional shall be engaged to advise on aspects of plant species selection, planting scheme and schedule including sourcing or nursery propagation of the required species), fire control, and post-planting monitoring and maintenance.

Action targets shall be set using percentage canopy cover formation for each planting plot to ensure effective woodland establishment in the long term.

· Plant species selection: Section 5.1

· Planting scheme and schedule:

Section 5.2, 5.3, 5.4 Appendix IIIa & IIIb

· Sourcing or nursery propagation of the required species:

Section 5.5

· Fire control:

Section 5.3, 5.6 & 6.10

· Post-planting monitoring and maintenance:

Section 6

· Requirements on Qualified professional: Section 6.3

· Action Targets based on Percentage Canopy Cover:

Section 6.5

Table 1.2 EP Requirements

Submission of Detailed Compensatory Woodland Planting Plan

2.22 – The Permit Holder shall, no later than 3 months before the commencement of construction works at Tung Chung Valley, submit 3 hardcopies and 1 electronic copy of a Detailed Compensatory Woodland Planting Plan (The Plan) to the Director for approval. The Plan shall include at least the following information:

	Requirements	Plan Section
(i)	extent of woodland loss, including site locations and sizes, and plant species and their numbers to be felled;	· Extent of woodland loss: Appendix Ib · Site locations and sizes: Section 2.1 · Plant species and their numbers to be felled: Section 2.2 & 2.3
(ii)	plant species to be selected for compensation with justifications;	· Section 5.1
(iii)	site conditions and sizes of compensatory planting areas;	· Section 3.1, 3.2 & 3.3 & 4 Appendices IIa & IIb
(iv)	planting scheme including but not limited to site preparation, size standards of planting, planting space and matrix for each planting site; and planting schedule, including but not limited to, early and timely arrangement for sourcing or nursery propagation of the required species;	· Planting scheme: Section 5.2 & 5.3 · Site preparation: Section 3.4 · Size standards of planting: Appendices IIIa & IIIb · Planting space and matrix for each planting site: Section 5.4, Appendices IIIa & IIIb · Planting schedule: Section 5.4, Appendices IIIa & IIIb · Early and timely arrangement for sourcing or nursery propagation of the required species: Section 5.5
(v)	fire control measures for planting; and	· Section 5.3, 5.6 & 6.10
(vi)	a detailed post-planting monitoring & maintenance programme, with action targets to be established using percentage canopy cover formation for each planting plot to ensure effective woodland establishment in the long term.	· Section 6

1.3.3 With reference to Section 9.8.3.1 of the approved EIA report (Register No. AEIAR- 196/2016), two locations were considered suitable location for compensatory planting. They are (i) the area adjoining the woodlands near the existing service reservoirs (Area A in TCE), and (ii) area to the east of Tung Chung Road (Area B in TCW), for location please refer to Appendix Ia.

1.3.4 Due to the site conditions (which are mentioned in Section 1.3.5 as below) and existing vegetation within the compensatory sites, a total estimated 36,000 nos. of whip trees will be planted in this compensatory woodland proposal (subject to on-site assessment, the actual no. of whip trees planting will be based on further review by Qualified Personnel and actual on-site condition). Of which, 2,937 nos. of whip trees shall constitute part of the compensatory tree planting ratio (in numbers) in the Tree Preservation and Removal Proposal (TPRP) for TCW. No individual compensatory tree planting in the TPRP for TCE will be located at the subject compensatory woodland planting areas. The full compensatory tree planting proposals are incorporated in the TPRPs which will be submitted separately to relevant authorities. The contractors for TCE (contract no. NL/2020/02, NL/2020/03, NL/2020/04 & NL/2020/07) will prepare and submit the TPRP in accordance with the technical circular “DEVB TC(W) No. 7/2015 – Tree Preservation”.¹ The contractors for TCW (contract no. NL/2020/05 & NL/2020/06) will prepare and submit the TPRP in accordance with the technical circular “DevB TC(W) No. 4/2020 – Tree Preservation”. The preparation and submission of TPRPs shall be made in line with the site progress before the tree removal.

Site constraints and justifications

1.3.5 Further to site survey (Preliminary Vegetation Survey at Compensatory Woodland Planting Area) carried out in August 2021, January 2022 and February 2022 (at Area A in TCE), and November 2021 and December 2021 (at Area B in TCW), the actual condition of the compensatory woodland planting area revealed the following site conditions:

· Newly found uncharted graves

· Remote access

· Steep terrain

· Dense canopy coverage of existing woodland

· Large number of boulders

· Lack of accessible routes to the feasible planting area.

The number of whip tree planting and planting spacing may be locally adjusted to suit the feasible planting area. In view of the dense woodland canopy cover and limited planting space available, best efforts will be provided to meet the target no. of compensatory whip tree planting without disturbing the existing shrubland and woodland vegetation. Due to prior land allocation for government facilities and existing graves, the locations of the recommended woodland compensation areas in the approved EIA Report have been adjusted on the condition that the extent of the compensation areas (11 hectares) is maintained.

1.4 Structure of this Plan

This Plan contains the following information:

- extent of woodland loss, including site locations and sizes, and plant species and their numbers to be felled;

- plant species to be selected for compensation with justifications;

- site conditions and sizes of compensatory planting areas;

- planting scheme, including but not limited to site preparation, size standards of planting, plant spacing, plant matrix and planting schedule;

- fire control measures for planting; and

- post-planting monitoring and establishment / maintenance programme.

¹: First submission of the TPRP for TCE was made before the effective date of DEVB TC(W) No. 4/2020. In accordance with the technical circular “DEVB TC(W) No. 4/2020”, this Circular takes effect on 1 April 2020. Tree Preservation and Removal Proposals (TPRPs) being considered according to DEVB TC(W) No. 7/2015 shall continue until completion of the corresponding government projects or tree removals arising from arboricultural maintenance.

1.5 Site Surveys

The following site surveys have been carried out by both TCE and TCW.

Description	TCE	TCW
Detailed Tree Survey	July/August 2020 by Engineer of TCE	August /September 2020 by Engineer of TCW
Preliminary Vegetation Survey at Compensatory Woodland Planting Area	August 2021, January 2022 and February 2022 by contractor of TCE	November 2021 and December 2021 by contractor of TCW
Tree Survey prior to the commencement of the construction	September 2021 by contractor of TCE	November 2021 to April 2022 by contractor of TCW

2 EXTENT OF WOODLAND LOSS

2.1 Site Locations and Sizes

According to Section 9.8.3.1 and Table 9.30a of the approved EIA report (Register No. AEIAR-196/2016), the TCNTE would affect an anticipated total 5.92 ha of woodland, including 4.87 ha of young secondary woodland, 0.85 ha of mature secondary woodland, and 0.20 ha of Fung Shui Woodland (for location details please refer to Appendix Ib).

2.2 Existing Species

According to Section 9.4.8.3 of the approved EIA report, within the project area, the dominant tree species in secondary woodlands and Fung Shui Woodlands, together with any plant species of conservation importance as recorded within the project area, are listed below for reference:

2.2.1 Secondary Woodland

2.2.1.1 In the open canopy, tree species like Pinus massoniana, Schefflera heptaphylla, Mallotus paniculatus, Rhus succedanea, Celtis sinensis, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, Sterculia lanceolata, Daphniphyllum calycinum and Sapium sebiferum were found. Along the foothill or footpaths a variety of exotic tree species such as Acacia confusa and Casuarina equisetifolia were recorded.

Species of conservation importance recorded in secondary woodlands included Aquilaria sinensis (tree), Gmelina chinensis (tree), Diospyros vaccinioides (shrub), Pavetta hongkongensis (shrub), Uvaria calamistrata (shrub), and Cibotium barometz (fern).

2.2.2 Fung Shui Woodland

2.2.2.1 Tree species varied among different Fung Shui Woodlands, but are generally dominated by common native species like Aporusa dioica, Bischofia javanica, Cleistocalyx nervosa and the exotic fruit trees Syzygium jambos, together with a mixture of other common native trees e.g. Celtis sinensis, Mallotus paniculatus, Aquilaria sinensis and Endospermum chinense. A variety of tree and shrub species, including Psychotria asiatica, Desmos chinensis, Sterculia lanceolata, Sarcandra glabra, Ardisia quinquegona, Uvaria microcarpa, Maesa perlarius and Glycosmis parviflora colonised the understorey.

2.2.2.2 Species of conservation importance recorded in Fung Shui Woodlands included Aquilaria sinensis (tree), Gmelina chinensis (tree) and Pavetta hongkongensis (shrub).

2.3 Species to be Felled within Woodland Loss Area

2.3.1 According to the detailed tree survey as conducted for TCW in August / September 2020 (Report No.: 251854-REP-122-02, Report. no.: 251854-REP-032-05 and Report. no.: 251854-REP-166-01), within the woodland loss area, 17 nos. of plant species will be felled. They are namely, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, Mallotus paniculatus, Artocarpus heterophyllus, Litchi chinensis, Leucaena leucocephala, Ficus hispida, Celtis sinensis, Acacia auriculiformis, Ficus variegata, Clausena lansium, Mangifera indica, Cleistocalyx nervosum, Citrus maxima, Sterculia lanceolata, Dimocarpus longan, Canthium dicoccum and Aporosa dioica.

2.3.2 On the other hand, it was estimated from the detailed tree survey in August / September 2020 that a total of 2,937 nos. of existing trees for TCW are inevitably affected by the proposed works and are proposed to be removed due to low “Suitability for Transplanting”. For contract 5, there are 916 nos. of individually surveyed existing trees. For contract 6, there are trees comprised of 1487 nos. of individually surveyed existing trees as well as an estimated 534 nos. of existing trees in tree groups.

2.3.3 Prior to the commencement of the construction in TCW, tree survey within the site boundaries for Contract No. NL/2020/05 and NL/2020/06 was carried out from November 2021 to April 2022 so that the actual number of trees to be removed due to the construction work was obtained. As of the approved TPRP result obtained in May 2022, the actual number of trees to be removed was 2,996. With the commencement of the upcoming construction work at the construction sites of TCW, further tree surveys will be carried out. The statistics of the tree removal for TCW will also be updated in the Monthly EM&A Report accordingly.

2.3.4 No woodland loss is involved within TCE, and no tree and woody species would be felled.

2.4 Species of Conservation Importance within Woodland Loss Area

2.4.1 According to the detailed tree survey as conducted for TCW in August / September 2020 (Report No.: 251854-REP-122-02, ref. no.: 251854-REP-032-05 and ref. no.: 251854-REP-166-01 ), within the woodland loss area, 3 nos. of plant species of conservation importance (Aquilaria sinensis, Gmelina chinensis and Canthium dicoccum) were recorded, the mitigation measures stated in the submission for EP condition 2.21 “Detailed Preservation and/or Translocation Plan for Plant Species of Conservation Importance” will be followed.

3 COMPENSATORY WOODLAND PROPOSAL

3.1 Background

3.1.1 A search of area to mitigate the loss of woodland was conducted and elaborated in the EIA study stage. According to Section 9.8.3.1 of the approved EIA report, after considering a number of requirements such as the existing vegetation cover, the accessibility for planting and future maintenance, and the ecological linkage with other existing habitats after the compensatory woodland is established, it was considered that two areas, including (i) adjoining the woodlands near the existing Tung Chung Fresh Water Service Reservoir (Area A in TCE), and (ii) hillsides to the east of Tung Chung Road (Area B in TCW) would be suitable locations, they are approximately 11 ha in size in total.

3.1.2 For the compensatory woodland near the existing Tung Chung Fresh Water Service Reservoir (Area A in TCE), the advantage of the selected location is that there are existing woodlands immediately downhill to the locations and the Sheung Ling Pei Fung Shui Woodland is further downhill behind Sheung Ling Pei Village and Chek Lap Kok New Village. Planting new woodland areas adjoining existing woodlands would form an ecological linkage and increase the overall habitat size, and hence would help to enhance the ecological and landscape values in the long term. Together with the compensatory woodland near hillsides to the east of Tung Chung Road (Area B in TCW), further ecological linkage could be formed. (Para. 9.8.3.1 and Figure 9.11 of the approved EIA report refers.)

3.2 Compensatory woodland near the existing Tung Chung Fresh Water Service Reservoir (Area A in TCE)

3.2.1 The compensatory woodland is located on the northern foothill of Wo Liu Tun, east of Lung Tseng Tau, south of Sheung Ling Pei. Its upper limit mostly follows the +120 mPD contour line and adjoins, without encroaching into, the boundary of the Lantau North (Extension) Country Park. This area is approximately 5.3 ha in size (location please refer to Appendix Ia).

3.2.2 The compensatory woodland is split into two planting sites; they are located to the east and west of the existing Tung Chung Fresh Water Service Reservoir respectively. For the eastern site in approximately 1.4 ha in size, it is an eastward facing, low altitude (approximately from +60 mPD to +100mPD) hillside soil slope. For the western site of approximately 3.9 ha in size, it is mainly westward and northward facing, low altitude (approximately from +70 mPD to +120mPD) hillside soil slope. They have average gradients of approximately 20-40° which could provide good drainage by elimination of standing water.

3.2.3 The surface is densely covered with ferns (Dicranopteris pedata), grasses and some sparse shrubs growth. Small patches of immature woods are present in shallow ravines within the site. Photos showing the general site condition of Area A in TCE is enclosed in Appendix IIa.

3.3 Compensatory woodland near hillsides to the east of Tung Chung Road (Area B in TCW)

3.3.1 The compensatory woodland planting is located on the western foothill of Wo Liu Tun, northeast of Shek Mun Kap, east of Tung Chung Road. Its upper limit mostly follows the +100 mPD contour line and adjoins, without encroaching into, the boundary of the Lantau North (Extension) Country Park. This area is approximately 5.7 ha in size (location please refer to Appendix Ia).

3.3.2 The planting site is a westward facing, low altitude (approximately from +50 mPD to

+100mPD) hillside soil slope without obvious rock outcrop. It has a gradient of approximately 20-40° that provides good drainage by elimination of standing water. The surface is densely covered with ferns (Dicranopteris pedata), grasses and some sparse shrubs growth. Small areas of immature woods are present in shallow ravines within the site. Photos showing the general site condition is enclosed in Appendix IIb.

3.3.3 The extensive growth of the fern species (Dicranopteris pedata), a classic soil indicator plant, indicates that the existing soil is slightly acidic which is typical of Hong Kong’s hillside. The dense vegetation cover and existence of immature woods indicate generally favourable site condition to support further vegetation succession, which might previously be marred due to disturbances (e.g. hill fire).

3.4 Site Preparation

3.4.1 The contractor shall carry out the planting works early in the planting season (preferably from March to May and no later than September), so as to enhance the survival rate of the new plants.

3.4.2 The boundary of the site shall first be set out by the contractor’s land surveyors and agreed with the Project Manager. The boundary shall be demarcated with durable implements that are clearly viewable.

3.4.3 During the setting out, areas within the site that contain dense woody growth which would not accommodate further tree planting shall have their boundaries set out and protected from interference.

3.4.4 Grass cutting/groundcover trimming and removal of invasive species will be conducted within the planting pits before delivery of plants to the site to facilitate whip tree planting and growth.

3.4.5 When carrying out grass cutting and planting, existing woody shrubs and immature trees shall be preserved as far as possible. No tree (i.e. with trunk diameter of 95mm or more) shall be interfered or removed. The planting pits should be shifted to preserve nearby woody plants.

3.4.6 After grass-cutting, the contractor would usually excavate the planting pits according to the specified spacing before plant delivery, so as to speed up the planting process.

3.4.7 The contractor shall also submit a method statement 1 month before the woodland planting for the ETs’ and IEC’s agreement and the Engineer’s approval. The date of the agreement and approval of method statement will be supplemented in the appropriate monthly EM&A Report by respective ETs. The method statement shall elaborate all aspects on the preparation, materials, working procedures and establishment works of the woodland planting. The method statement shall include, but are not limited to programme of works, site preparation, materials, plant delivery, planting procedures, schedule of establishment works etc.

4 SITE CONDITION

4.1 Site Condition of TCE

4.1.1 Preliminary vegetation survey for TCE have been conducted in August 2021, January 2022 and February 2022 by Qualified Personnel for verifying the proposed details of work in the plan whether they could be executed or any amendment is required.

4.1.2 According to the observation of the inspection and vegetation survey, it is found that the majority of the planting site is sloping terrain (>30°) occupied by different types of woodland vegetation with various population including shrubs and trees (i.e. DBH<95mm) and trees (i.e.: DBH>95mm). Soil erosion control mat on some hilly areas covered by groundcovers, ferns and shrubs is noted. Available planting space is limited, but could be made available at the open gaps between existing trees.

4.1.3 Other area in the planting site is relatively gentle terrain (<30°) occupied by existing groundcover, ferns and few individual shrubs. Available planting space could be found after cutting grass without affecting the existing woody shrubs and trees.

4.1.4 Plant species of conservation importance were identified at the compensatory woodland planting area near the existing Tung Chung Fresh Water Service Reservoir at TCE according to the approved Detailed Preservation and/or Translocation Plan for Plant Species of Conservation Importance for Tung Chung East (November 2021), submission for EP Condition 2.21. Prior to the commencement of compensatory woodland planting works, tree protection zone should be set up around the preserved existing plants of conservation importance. Signposts should also be erected and regular toolbox talk should be provided to inform the workers about the precautionary measures for protecting the concerned plant individuals and their root system. The contractor should keep the protection zone clean and tidy without building materials, waste and excess soil. No digging, trenching, compaction, or other soil disturbance should be allowed in the tree protection zone.

4.2 Site Condition of TCW

4.2.1 Preliminary vegetation survey for TCW have been conducted in November 2021 and December 2021 for verifying the proposed details of work in the plan whether they could be executed or any amendment is required.

4.2.2 Generally, the extensive growth of the groundcover species fern species Dicranopteris pedata is a classic soil indicator plant, indicates that the existing soil is slightly acidic which is typical vegetation found in Hong Kong hillside. The dense vegetation cover and existence of immature woods indicate generally a favorable site condition to support further vegetation succession.

4.2.3 According to the observation of the survey at the surveyed points CW24 to CW36 in the Appendix IIIb, the proposed planting site has a gradient of approximately 20-40° that provides good drainage by elimination of standing water.

4.2.4 The surveyed points (CW23 to CW25, and CW27 to CW36) are typical secondary woodland site with understory areas covered with medium to dense population of climber, shrub or fern species such as Dicranopteris pedata芒萁.

4.2.5 The surveyed point CW26 is typical shrubland site which has less density of shrubs and covered with groundcover species.

4.2.6 There are no plant species of conservation importance in the woodland compensatory area for TCW.

5 PLANTING SCHEME AND SPECIES SELECTION

5.1 Species Selection Justifications

5.1.1 The proposed species list for compensatory woodland planting is developed from the proposed woodland planting list as stated in the approved EIA report, and with other considerations as elaborated below.

5.1.2 Species selected should meet the following criteria:

- Mostly of native species recorded within the EIA assessment area and are present nearby;

- Small amount of fruit trees to compensate for orchard loss, and to benefit wildlife including those reported in orchard habitats;

- A diverse mix that increases the plantation’s overall adaptability, to provide ecological benefits at different times of year, and to enhance wildlife use;

- Market availability;

- Robust, tough-growing, low maintenance requirement; and

- Usage and maintenance are familiar by local practices.

5.2 Planting Scheme – Core Area

5.2.1 The goal of the compensatory woodland planting is to establish a mature, closed canopy dominated by native trees.

5.2.2 In this regard, a majority of native trees and small amount of fruit trees are proposed to be planted in the “Core Area” as shown in Appendices IIIa & IIIb. A diverse mix is proposed to adapt to potential environmental differences within the site, and to increase biodiversity.

5.2.3 For TCE, in the “Core Area” where the site is dominant with existing groundcover, ferns, shrubs, undersize trees (i.e.: DBH<95mm) and trees (i.e.: DBH>95mm), “Enhancement Planting” will be carried out at the sloping vegetated areas with open gaps between existing trees after carrying out grass cutting without affecting existing woody shrubs and trees. Local planting pockets created after grass cutting within the existing vegetated site will be planted with shade tolerant native plant species, such as Machilus chekiangensis (浙江潤楠), Schefflera heptaphylla (鵝掌柴) and Sterculia lanceolate (假蘋婆), to enrich tree coverage of the planting site and the adapt to the existing diverse woodland habitat.

5.2.4 As the woodland matures, understorey vegetation would naturally develop. The natural regeneration of understorey plants should be encouraged provided that the species are not aggressive in habit and would not adversely affect tree growth.

5.3 Planting Scheme – Green Firebreak Area

5.3.1 In accordance with the EP (Environmental Permit No. EP-519/2016) requirement, the compensatory woodland should be protected from potential disturbance by fires. In order to do so, fire resistant native trees (e.g. Schima superba) will be planted in the periphery to form a “green firebreak” (the Green Firebreak Area).

5.3.2 Species selected for this “green firebreak” should be fast growing, have dense canopies to suppress understory growth, reduce wind speed, catch burning embers, and can recover from mild damage by hill fires. Species having high leaf moisture content and a lower flammability would also benefit.

5.3.3 This “green firebreak” would have a width of 20m which is adopted from local practices (e.g. Acacia firebreak planting at Lam Tsuen Country Park; grass-cut firebreaks at various locations in Hong Kong).

5.3.4 It should be noted that this “green firebreak” will require years to reach maturity. Periodic maintenance (e.g. removal of understorey growth and litter accumulation) during the establishment period is needed to maintain its effectiveness until the canopy becomes dense enough to suppress understory. It should also be noted that under adverse fire-weather conditions, even these firebreak trees might themselves catch fire.

5.4 Plant Schedule and Matrix

5.4.1 The proposed tree and shrub species for the compensatory woodland planting are listed in Table 5.4.1 and Table 5.4.2 below:

Table 5.4.1 – Proposed Species List for compensatory woodland near the existing Tung Chung Fresh Water Service Reservoir (Area A in TCE)

Core Area	Compensatory Planting
	Scientific name	Chinese name	Origin	Remarks	%
	Cinnamomum camphora	樟	Native	Main canopy tree	13 %
	Clausena lansium	黃皮	Exotic	Fruit tree for orchard loss	7 %
	Cleistocalyx operculatus	水翁	Native	Main canopy tree	7 %
	Dimocarpus longan	龍眼	Exotic	Fruit tree for orchard loss	7 %
	Liquidambar formosana	楓香	Native	Main canopy tree	13 %
	Litsea glutinosa	潺槁樹	Native	Main canopy tree	13 %
	Phyllanthus emblica	餘甘子	Native	Pioneering tree/shrub	7 %
	Polyspora axillaris	大頭茶	Native	Pioneering tree/shrub	7 %
	Sapium discolor	山烏桕	Native	Pioneering tree/shrub	13 %
	Sapium sebiferum	烏桕	Native	Pioneering tree/shrub	13 %
				Total	100 %
	Enhancement Planting
	Scientific name	Chinese name	Origin	Remarks	%
	Machilus chekiangensis	浙江潤楠	Native	Main canopy tree	32 %
	Schefflera heptaphylla	鵝掌柴	Native	Pioneering tree/shrub	34 %
	Sterculia lanceolata	假蘋婆	Native	Main canopy tree	34 %
				Total	100 %
Green Firebreak Area	Scientific name	Chinese name	Origin	Remarks	%
	Schima superba	木荷	Native	Firebreak tree	100%
				Total	100%

* The planting detail will be subjected to further review by Qualified Personnel and actual on-site condition.

Table 5.4.2 – Proposed Species List for compensatory woodland east of Tung Chung Road (Area B in TCW)

	Compensatory Planting
Core Area	Scientific name	Chinese name	Origin	Remarks	%
	Ligustrum sinense	山指甲	Native	Pioneering tree/shrub	6.02 %
	Polyspora axillaris	大頭茶	Native	Pioneering tree/shrub	6.02 %
	Phyllanthus emblica	餘甘子	Native	Pioneering tree/shrub	6.02 %
	Castanopsis fissa	黧蒴錐	Native	Main canopy tree	6.02 %
	Celtis sinensis	朴樹	Native	Main canopy tree	6.02 %
	Cinnamomum burmannii	陰香	Native	Main canopy tree	6.02 %
	*Cinnamomum camphora	樟	Native	Main canopy tree	1.1%
	*Ficus microcarpa	榕樹	Native	Main canopy tree	1.1%
	Ilex rotunda var. microcarpa	小果鐵冬青	Native	Main canopy tree	6.02 %
	Liquidambar formosana	楓香	Native	Main canopy tree	6.02 %
	Mallotus paniculatus	白楸	Native	Main canopy tree	6.02 %
	Reevesia thyrsoidea	梭羅樹	Native	Main canopy tree	6.02 %
	Sapium discolor	山烏桕	Native	Main canopy tree	6.02 %
	Sapium sebiferum	烏桕	Native	Main canopy tree	6.02 %
	Schefflera heptaphylla	鵝掌柴	Native	Main canopy tree	6.02 %
	Schima superba	木荷	Native	Main canopy tree	6.02 %
	Sterculia lanceolata	假蘋婆	Native	Main canopy tree	6.02%
	Clausena lansium	黃皮	Exotic	Fruit tree for orchard loss	2.5 %
	Dimocarpus longan	龍眼	Exotic	Fruit tree for orchard loss	2.5 %
	Myrica rubra	楊梅	Native	Fruit tree for orchard loss	2.5 %
				Total	100 %
Green Firebreak Area	Scientific name	Chinese name	Origin	Remarks	%
	Schima superba	木荷	Native	Firebreak tree	100 %
				Total	100 %

* The planting detail will be subjected to further review by Qualified Personnel and actual on-site condition.

5.4.2 According to the current proposal, total estimated 36,000 nos. of whip trees will be planted or a maximum no. of planting by 1.5m spacing (The actual no. of whip trees and planting will be based on further review by Qualified Personnel and actual on-site condition) within the compensatory woodland planting area. Detailed planting proposal listing the proposed tree species, specification, plant spacing and plant matrixes to be planted at the compensation woodland are shown in Appendices IIIa & IIIb.

5.4.3 Whip Tree shall have the following characteristics as per section 3.12 of General Specification for Civil Engineering Works (GS), 2020 Edition:

a) Age between 2 and 3 years;

b) A single central stem well furnished with side branches according to species;

c) A well-developed vigorous root system;

d) Total height above soil level exceeding 900mm but not exceeding 2000mm;

e) Grown and supplied in a container at least 125mm in diameter and 200mm deep and;

f) Free of any pest, fungi and disease

5.4.4 The planting programme with the timeline for the completion of the compensatory woodland planting for ET and IEC to carry out their duties under the Environmental Monitoring & Audit Programme.

Table 5.4.3 – Planting Schedule and Programme

	TCE	TCW
Planting by Contractor	Q3 2022 (preferably from March to May and no later than September)	Q2 2022 (preferably from March to May and no later than September)
Establishment Works by Contractor	Q4 2022 to Q3 2025	Q3 2022 to Q2 2025
Post-planting monitoring by Contractor	Q4 2022 to Q3 2025 (on a quarterly basis)	Q3 2022 to Q2 2025 (on a quarterly basis)
Establishment / Maintenance Works by CEDD	Q4 2025 to Q3 2032	Q3 2025 to Q2 2032
Percentage Canopy Cover measurement by CEDD	Q3 2025, Q3 2029 and Q3 2032	Q2 2025, Q2 2029 and Q2 2032

Note: Establishment period refers to the establishment works carried out by contractors appointed by CEDD. Maintenance period refers to establishment / maintenance works carried out by CEDD after the completion of establishment period.

5.5 Plant Procurement

5.5.1 All of the proposed tree species are commercially available, and most of the proposed species are commonly used locally. Therefore, it is not anticipated that prior arrangement from native seedling specialist suppliers (KFBG, AFCD etc.) would be necessary.

5.5.2 Nevertheless, the requirement for the contractors to source all the specified plant materials early and timely manner shall be included into the contract. The contractors shall be required to demonstrate their plant sources’ availability and reliability. The plant sources’ availability and reliability will be monitored by the Engineer. As the whip trees for the compensatory woodland planting for both TCE and TCW were delivered in early 2022, the arrangement of the sourcing of nursery propagation of the required species, which was considered to be an alternative measure, was not applicable.

5.6 Fire Control

5.6.1 The planting site, at least partly, is subject to fire risk in the presence of nearby graves. To reduce the chance of catching on fire from grave-sweeping activities, and also to prevent disturbing the graves, the plantings will be set back 15m from any existing graves.

5.6.2 In addition, the planting and establishment of “green firebreak” trees at the periphery of the compensatory woodland will provide some degree of fire protection in the long term, once the green firebreak trees have matured.

5.6.3 The Green Firebreak, as described in Section 5.3, is designed to have dense canopies that would suppress understory growth at maturity, and shall be able to sustain its own function after the 10 years establishment / maintenance period by CEDD.

5.7 Planting

5.7.1 The planting pits shall be 100mm wider and 50mm deeper than the rootball. All litters and stones exceeding 25mm diameter from the excavated materials shall be removed, 50g of pre-planting fertilizer shall be mixed into the soil.

5.7.2 All plants shall be pre-soaked and protected from exposure before planting. Each plant shall be placed upright in the pit. The top of the rootball shall be set slightly deeper (e.g. 10mm) than the surrounding level to form a water retaining basin.

5.7.3 Soil shall be deposited and tamped in layers around the rootball in such a manner that the rootball is not disturbed while the top of the rootball shall not be buried. Plants shall be well watered to soak the rootballs and soil immediately after planting.

5.7.4 Upon the completion of the planting works, the contractor shall submit the as-built records of the compensatory woodland planting to the Engineer for approval and agreed with ET and IEC.

6 POST-PLANTING MONITORING AND MAINTENANCE

6.1 General

6.1.1 The goal of the compensatory woodland planting is to establish a mature, closed canopy dominated by native trees.

6.1.2 The duration of the establishment / maintenance works of the compensatory woodland planting as managed by CEDD shall be ten years, which is in accordance with the Section 9.8.3.2 of the approved EIA Report. This includes the implementation of the establishment work for the first three years by the contractors of TCNTE as commissioned by CEDD.

6.1.3 An outline of post-planting monitoring works and summary of the establishment / maintenance works during the 10 years period (by CEDD) are provided below.

6.2 Post-planting Monitoring

6.2.1 Post-planting monitoring will be carried out by Qualified Personnel at quarterly interval for at least 3 years, and commence 3 months after completion of planting. The Contractor shall submit quarterly post-planting monitoring report to the Engineer, ET and IEC within 5 working days after each monitoring inspection. The Engineer, ET and IEC may join the post-planting monitoring exercise to witness the monitoring work as implemented if necessary.

6.3 Qualified Personnel

6.3.1 The contractor shall employ the qualified botanist and ecologist to be approved by the Engineer and agreed with ET and IEC to carry out the post-planting monitoring and maintenance inspections and prepare the post-planting monitoring reports. The qualified botanist and ecologist shall attend inspections and meetings with the Engineer, ET and IEC and /or other relevant parties if necessary.

6.3.2 The qualified botanist and ecologist for post-planting monitoring and maintenance shall have the following minimum requirements:

· Have a bachelor’s degree or higher in horticulture or a related field such as arboriculture, botany and ecology from a Hong Kong University or equivalent; and

· Have a minimum of 5 years of proven full-time practical experience in horticulture, soft landscape implementation/supervision, plant care or vegetation management.

6.4 Methodology

6.4.1 The post-planting monitoring shall be carried in a systematic, editable and traceable manner. The contractors shall submit the methodology of the post-planting monitoring to the Engineer for approval and agreed with ET and IEC. To facilitate monitoring, the compensatory woodland shall be divided into several planting plots demarcated with clearly visible and durable implements if necessary.

6.4.2 The following information for each planting plot should be recorded:

- Area (m²) of each planting plot;

- Percentage canopy cover,

- Approximate quantity and percentage presence of each species;

- Survival rate, general health and vigor of each species;

- Sizes of each species, including average height, spread and calibre at ground

level/basal diameter/DBH;

- Understorey plant species and coverage;

- Presence and severity of noxious weeds;

- Any special remedial works required;

- Wildlife use of the planted vegetation;

- Other additional remarks

6.4.3 A diverse mix of robust native tree species have been included in the tree planting matrix with an aim to adapt to potential environmental differences within the site. Nevertheless, it would be normal for individual patches to perform differently due to varied site conditions and microclimates, thus the action targets set for replacement planting should be based on actual performances in individual planting plots.

6.4.4 Monitoring at the end of each year's growing season shall determine the extent and amount of replacement planting to be carried out next planting season. Selected individuals of each planted species will be tagged and 20% survival computed Supplementary planting will be recommended when necessary.

6.5 Action Targets based on Percentage Canopy Cover

6.5.1 The action target of percentage canopy shall only be applicable to the area of Level of Planting Difficulty (I). i.e. shrubland area with the gradient <30°. It is proposed to identify a fixed number of pilot trees with belt transect (with quadrats) method in each planting plot. The Qualified Personnel will measure percentage canopy cover formation, growth rate and survival rate monitoring of the pilot trees on the 3rd, 7th and 10th year. A set of action target and corresponding measures shall be formulated basing on the monitoring parameters. At the 10th year, it is proposed to achieve the average percentage canopy cover of 20% in surveyed quadrats or the average growth rate of 20% of the measured crown spread of pilot trees. Remedial measure is required when the survival rate of the surveyed quadrats is lower than 20%. Due to the lack of literature information of the percentage canopy cover data in Hong Kong, the proposed canopy cover of 20% will be subject to actual site condition.

6.5.2 A method statement for establishing the action target on percentage canopy cover shall be submitted to the Engineer for approval and agreed with ET and IEC 1 month before the commencement of percentage canopy cover measurement.

6.6 Establishment / Maintenance Works (10 years, by CEDD)

6.6.1 Regular establishment / maintenance works shall be carried out to ensure the healthy growth of the plants. The specifications and minimum frequencies of each type of establishment / maintenance works will be clearly stated in the contract. Quarterly inspections should be carried out to monitor the plants and identify any special operations required.

6.6.2 Generally, it will be necessary to regularly cut grass and remove noxious weeds within the planting area. Post-planting fertilizer will be applied yearly in each spring. Dead or dying trees will be replaced. Works may be necessary to ameliorate the effect of any erosion or land degradation should these occur. Periodic grass cutting during the establishment / maintenance period to remove understorey growth and litter accumulation within the Green Firebreak and around graves is recommended to maintain effectiveness of fire control.

6.6.3 The contractors shall carry out the following establishment works when instructed by the Engineer unless otherwise specified. The Engineer shall be responsible to determine the type and frequency of maintenance works required based on the post-planting monitoring results, unless the frequency of any specific maintenance works is specified below.

6.7 Weeding

6.7.1 To reduce competition to the whip trees from grass and noxious weeds, weed control through manual or mechanical means will be necessary. Grass cutting should be carried out as necessary to cut existing grass to 100mm from ground. Meanwhile, noxious weeds like Leucaena leucocephala and Mikania micrantha shall be uprooted. Unless in exceptional circumstances, in order to prevent unintended dispersal which may affect the natural environment, herbicides and pesticides are not allowed . To prevent fire hazard, all weeding wastes should be removed from site to a proper tipping point for disposal and should not be left on the hillside.

6.8 Erosion Control

6.8.1 Areas affected by washout and gullies and other erosion on slopes, where applicable, shall be repaired. Erosion control measures such as biodegradable coir mesh should be applied to particular spots if necessary.

6.9 Fertilizing

6.9.1 Apply post-planting fertilizer as per GS Clause 3.34(2) at a rate of 50g per whip tree, once each year in spring, and preferably after weeding operation. Fertilizer should be applied near the base of each whip tree and shrub, not broadcasted, so as to reduce absorption and competition from grasses.

6.10 Fire Control

6.10.1 As weeds, understorey growth and leaf litter would act as fuel and facilitate the spread of fire, removal of such materials is essential to maintain the effectiveness of the “Green Firebreak”. Therefore, the establishment / maintenance works shall also include regular grass-cutting and leaf litter collection within the “Green Firebreak Area” and around graves. It is especially important to complete the task before known periods of high fire risk i.e. before Ching Ming Festival (April) and before Chung Yeung Festival (October).

6.5

6.6

6.7

6.8

6.9

6.10

6.10.1

6.10.2 Furthermore, fire control will include active management measures during the establishment / maintenance period. As understorey growth and litter accumulation would act as fuel to facilitate spreading of fire, the contractors shall carry out grass cutting 4 times per year on a quarterly basis to cut all existing grass within the Green Firebreak Area and around nearby graves will be carried out throughout the establishment / maintenance period to remove understorey growth and litter accumulation.

6.11 Replacements

6.11.1 Dead or poor health trees should be replaced during the establishment / maintenance period based on monitoring results. Replacement planting, if necessary, shall be carried out as soon as possible within the planting season (i.e., preferably from March to May and no later than September), after grass cutting and weeding operation as far as practicable to enhance the survival rate of the new plants.

6.12 Natural Regeneration of Understorey

6.12.1 Understorey vegetation naturally develops as the woodland matures. The natural regeneration of understorey growth within the “Core Area” should be encouraged as long as the species are beneficial to the woodland regeneration and not aggressive in nature.

6.13 Tree Risk Assessment

6.13.1 The Tree Risk Assessment and Management (TRAM) and Auditing exercise shall be carried out where appropriate in accordance with the requirements and methodology as stipulated in the latest version of DEVB’s “Guidelines for Tree Risk Assessment and Management Arrangement” and “Guideline for Auditing of Tree Risk Assessment for Tree Management Departments”.

6.13.2 The contractors shall be responsible to carry out Area Basis Assessment to identify high priority areas and if necessary, Tree Group Inspection (Form 1), Individual Tree Risk Assessment (Form 2) and undertaking of mitigation measures.

6.13.3 Details of the TRAM and Auditing exercise will be elaborated in the “Tree Management Plan and Tree Risk Assessment Report” to be submitted in the Construction Phase.

6.13.4 The woodland compensatory area is classified as Category III Tree Risk Management Zone under the Guidelines for Tree Risk Assessment and Management Arrangement (9th edition (Rev. 3)) published by the Greening, Landscape and Tree Management Section of the DEVB. TRAM will be carried out when necessary (e.g., act on complaint).

6.14 Long Term Maintenance

6.14.1 Upon the completion of first 3 years of the establishment works by the contractors, CEDD will undertake the maintenance responsibility for the woodland planting from the 4th year to 10th years and till the maintenance department of the government to be identified.

7 CONCLUSIONS

7.1 Summary

7.1.1 This Plan is prepared to comply with the EP (Environmental Permit No. EP- 519/2016) clause 2.22 - Submission of Detailed Compensatory Woodland Planting Plan, and para. (e) of the Conditions of Approval (CoA) under Section 8(3) of the EIA Ordinance (letter ref: (37) in EP2/N9/S3/145 Pt.12 dated 08 April 2016).

7.1.2 The compensatory woodland planting areas are located on areas adjoining the woodlands near the existing Tung Chung Fresh Water Service Reservoir and hillsides to the east of Tung Chung Road, and are approximately 11 ha in size in total.

7.1.3 A diverse mix of whip trees comprising mostly native trees and small amount of fruit trees for orchard compensation are proposed to enhance the compensatory woodland’s diversity and adaptability (the Core Area). The plantation also contains a 20m width band of green firebreak at the periphery, comprising native firebreak trees to act as fire control (the Green Firebreak Area).

7.1.4 As the whip trees for the compensatory woodland planting for both TCE and TCW were delivered in early 2022, the arrangement of the sourcing of nursery propagation of the required species, which was considered to be an alternative measure, was not applicable.

7.2 Contract Requirements

7.2.1 All relevant details including boundaries of planting, plant species, specified sizes and quantities, specification of works, timely procurement of plant materials, post-planting monitoring and establishment requirements etc. should be incorporated into the TCE and TCW contracts for effective implementation and monitoring.

7.3 Programme

7.3.1 According to the latest contract packaging of TCNTE, the proposed compensatory woodland planting will be carried out under Contract 2 (Area A in TCE) and Contract 6 (Area B in TCW). For the planting and establishment works, the works for TCE will commence in Q3 2022 and end in Q3 2025 while the work for TCW will commence in early 2022 and end in mid 2025. The establishment period shall start immediately after completion of planting and last for the duration of the respective Contracts.

7.3.2 Subsequent maintenance will be implemented through other contracts under this Project or term contracts under CEDD to ensure the compensatory woodland is properly taken care of.

7.4 Maintenance Agents

7.4.1 CEDD will be responsible to maintain the compensatory woodland planting for 10 years before handing over to other maintenance department of the government to be identified. Outlines of the post-planting monitoring and establishment requirements during the establishment period by CEDD is presented in Section 6.

7.5 Implementation Schedule

7.5.1 An Implementation Schedule is attached in Appendix IV.

8 REFERENCE

8.1 References and Guidelines

8.1.1 In preparation of the Plan, reference has been made to the following technical circulars, practice notes, guidelines and publications:

8.1.2 DEVB TCW No. 7/2015 & DEVB TCW No. 4/2020 – Tree Preservation

8.1.3 DEVB TCW No. 5/2020 – Registration and Preservation of Old and Valuable Trees

8.1.4 Forests and Countryside Ordinance (Cap.96)

8.1.5 AFCD Publication – Rare and Precious Plants of Hong Kong (2003)

8.1.6 AFCD Publication – Check List of Hong Kong Plants 2012

8.1.7 AFCD Publication – Central Ridge and West (群山覽翠) 2006

8.1.8 AFCD - Briefing Session on the Country Parks Plantation Enrichment Project (available online)

8.1.9 DEVB TCW No. 6/2015 – Maintenance of Vegetation and Hard Landscape Features

8.1.10 General Specification for Civil Engineering Works, 2020 Edition

8.1.11 GEO Publication No. 1/2011 – Technical Guidelines on Landscape Treatment for Slopes

8.1.12 All relevant guidelines and Proper Planting Practices published by Greening, Landscape and Tree Management Section (GLTMS) of Development Bureau

8.1.13 Geo Report No. 259 – Study On The Application Of Various Vegetation Species For Landscaping Of Man-Made Slopes In Hong Kong

8.1.14 CEDD – The Geology of Hong Kong (available online)

8.1.15 PlanD – Landscape Value Mapping of Hong Kong Technical Report (available online)