Background:
The Starr Ferry Pier and the Queen’s Pier were built in the 1950s and were considered as landmarks of the Victoria Harbour. The government carried out reclamation projects in Central and Wai Chai, which included the demolition of the Star Ferry Pier and the Queen’s Pier and their removal to a newly reclaimed area.
Details:
Conservation pressure groups strongly opposed the demolition, arguing that it was a major loss of history, culture, and collective memory. They criticized the government for the lack of public consultation and ignored the sustainability of the plan. Activists occupied the pier and some of them staged a hunger strike.
Consequences:
The two piers were eventually demolished. The participation of “post-80s” (born after 1980) activists paved way for similar actions in the future (the anti-high speed rail campaign in 2009). It can be said that the actions raised people's awareness towards the value of Hong Kong’s heritage and local culture.
News Report from South China Morning Post, 13 December 2006
News Report from BBC News, 10 August 2007
Pro-Beijing commentary, Wen Wei Po, 15 December 2006 (Chinese) (English-translated)
Pro-Democracy commentary, Apple Daily, 14 December 2006 (Chinese) (English-translated)