Wang Fuk Court survivors hit out at ‘bureaucratic’ process for URA subsidies

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Emily HungFebruary 4, 2026 at 03:29 PM

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Survivors of the deadly Wang Fuk Court fire in Hong Kong are criticizing the Urban Renewal Authority's (URA) subsidy distribution process as bureaucratic and insensitive. The URA, through Hop On Management, is providing building maintenance subsidies of HK$40,000 or HK$50,000 to around 1,700 eligible owners of Wang Fuk Court, which was undergoing renovations when the fire occurred in November 2025. Residents must collect cheques in person or authorize a representative at designated times and locations between February 7 and 14. Some survivors are reportedly facing difficulties providing proof of legal heirship and navigating the rigid collection schedule, leading to complaints about red tape. The subsidy is part of the URA's Operation Building Bright 2.0 scheme, supporting homeowners mandated to conduct building inspections and repairs.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Tai Po 60% Operation Building Bright 2.0 60% Hop On Management ×275% Hong Kong 80% Urban Renewal Authority (URA) ×285% Wang Fuk Court ×390%

Keywords

ura subsidies 90% wang fuk court 90% tai po blaze 80% bureaucratic process 70% building maintenance 60% legal heirship 60% urban renewal authority 50% operation building bright 50% subsidy cheques 50%