This is a significant project of HKU as it is to facilitate pedestrian access from Bonham Road / Sai Ying Pun to HKU then to improve pedestrian flow capacity. The major feature in this project is that the original style of HKU’s Chinese name at the previous East Gate is to be copied and rebuilt on a new modern portal (“Portal”).

The scope of this project involves complete alteration, structural modifications, strengthening and repair works to the existing structures for the construction of an access with the Portal, including new entrance stairs and two new covered escalators connecting the three existing lifts between K. K. Leung Building and the Knowles Building on the Main Campus and they are erected on the existing slope.

Since the site is located beside the east entrance of HKU where the existing access road to the Main Campus is relatively narrow, the logistical arrangements for the delivery of construction materials and the limited working areas (both affecting the traffic) pose a challenge to us. To cope with them, a detailed planning and careful choice of hoisting plant are essential so as to minimize the disruption to HKU. Another challenge is the noise control as it will affect the normal operation of HKU and make some nuisance to nearby residents. Thus, all our site activities need to be well co-ordination. The last challenge is the existing trees on the slope and within the site, especially the big tree next to the Portal. Our extreme care and protection to them are highly required during the whole construction period for the maintaining of the greenery of it’s original environment.

Upon the completion of this project, the Portal likes the Door of Wisdom and the entrance stair and two escalators seem to be as an access to The Intelligence, both of them leading all entrants to the highest Academy in Hong Kong.

Completion Date: 2/2025