Addition to Recreation

Maryknoll Convent School (Secondary Section) - LAI Sum Kay Jamie, CHAN Tsz Ying Charmaine

Introduction

During the COVID-19 pandemic, some heartbreaking photos have appeared on the social media — some outdoor workers could only eat and take breaks on the streets under extreme heat as all restaurants have to be closed after 6pm. Living amidst tall skyscrapers is a prominent aspect of life in Hong Kong, which is known for its bustling lifestyle. The city's landscape on either side of Victoria Harbour is dominated by endless towering structures, creating a concrete jungle with scarce green and open spaces. This lack of natural areas can make the surroundings feel suffocating. While these buildings serve as essential homes and workplaces, the city requires more leisure spaces that can bring advantages to both businesses and the well-being of its residents, as well as the environment.

In this storymap, we'll examine the situation in two districts of Hong Kong, Kwun Tong and Yau Tsim Mong, and compare the availability and adequacy of recreational facilities for the citizens, especially the elderly and children in these areas.

Research Question

Is there a lack of recreational facilities in Kwun Tong and how to the situation can be improved?

To solve this question, we have proposed three objectives as follows :

  1. Discuss the importance of recreational areas and how it enhances the living quality of Hong Kong citizens.
  2. Review and contrast the current situation in Kwun Tong and Yau Tsim Mong on terms of the population at different age groups and the distribution of recreational areas in the two districts.
  3. Suggest how to improve the situation by giving practical examples to achieve improvements in environmental, social and governance.

Seriousness of shortage of recreational facilities

public space in hong kong

Importance of recreational facilities

Examples of recreational facilities and open areas in Yau Tsim Mong district and contrast to that in Kwun Tong District

Population

  • the population of age group under 15 years old in Kwun Tong district in 2021 was 83,257, while that of Yau Tsim Mong district was 41,355.
  • the population of age group above 65 years old in Kwun Tong district in 2021 was 81,380, while that of Yau Tsim Mong district was 36,525.
  • It is shown that the population of Kwun Tong district of the the above age groups are over two times of that in Yau Tsim Mong district. Therefore, more recreational facilities are definitely needed to provide them with sufficient entertainment and rest.

Solutions

What measures have other cities adopted

London, the United Kingdom

Some strategies of London open spaces include: • Maximising opportunities to address deficiencies of open space where possible, consistent with other City Corporation objectives • Ensuring that all existing and new open spaces are varied, of high quality, and relevant to the needs of the local area including, where appropriate, access to play for all • Ensuring all open spaces are designed to be safe and inclusive, giving equal access and enjoyment to the sites and activities that take place

Our suggestions

Conclusion

The storymap we have presented serves as a tool to raise awareness about the diverse needs of different age groups in our society. By highlighting the importance of recreational areas and open spaces, we aim to encourage the government and various organizations to take action towards creating a better living environment for all.

We hope that this initiative will inspire more people to pay attention to the well-being of their communities and take steps towards building a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Together, we can make our city a vibrant and thriving place that fosters healthy lifestyles and social connections for everyone.

"While leisure and recreation are necessary to get closer to life, you need alertness and effort to face it."