‘All options’ on table amid feedback from flat owners hit by Tai Po fire: John Lee

The Hong Kong government is analysing feedback from 90 per cent of property owners affected by the devastating Tai Po fire, with the city leader stressing that “every option” is being considered amid some residents’ demands for in situ redevelopment.Two months after the fire that claimed 167 lives, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu on Tuesday underlined the importance of announcing a long-term resettlement plan for thousands of displaced residents, but stopped short of providing a timeline.He spoke to the press shortly after Erick Tsang Kwok-wai stepped down as secretary for constitutional and mainland affairs, citing health issues due to prostate cancer.Lee reassured the public that investigations by law enforcement agencies and the independent committee looking into the fire were under way at “full speed”, reiterating the government’s commitment to uncovering the truth and identifying responsible parties as soon as possible.The fire on November 26 engulfed seven of the eight high-rise residential buildings in Wang Fuk Court, displacing nearly 5,000 people, many of whom are currently staying in temporary accommodation arranged by the government.To gauge residents’ preferences for long-term rehousing solutions, the government previously distributed questionnaires to flat owners. Options included a buyout plan, a flat-for-flat arrangement, and an in situ development plan, which could take up to 10 years to complete.Lee said ahead of his weekly meeting with top advisers on Tuesday that the government was analysing feedback from 90 per cent of the flat owners, while housing authorities were reviewing existing projects to provide more options.