Hong Kong government issues buy-back offer letters to Wang Fuk Court homeowners
Letters issued confirming August 31 deadline, but some ‘pressured’ homeowners call for more time and clearer resettlement details
Hong Kong authorities have formally issued buy-back offer letters to homeowners at the fire-ravaged Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, giving them until August 31 to decide whether to accept the deal under a long-term resettlement plan.
The letters were sent to all homeowners on Thursday, including those who had previously said they would not sell their flats, the South China Morning Post has learned.
The government has earmarked HK$6.8 billion (US$870 million) to acquire flats damaged in last November’s deadly fire, which killed 168 people and displaced nearly 5,000 residents. Buy-back offers are set at HK$8,000 or HK$10,500 per square foot, depending on whether the land premium has been paid.
A company wholly owned by The Financial Secretary Incorporated, Wang Fuk Court Property Rights Acquisition Limited, has been set up to acquire the estate.
“The government’s acquisition offer provides a range of options, allowing owners to make the most suitable choice based on their own circumstances and needs,” a government spokesman said.
“Upon receipt of the owners’ duly signed ‘letter of acceptance’, the government will make every effort to promptly assist in completing the agreement for sale and purchase and the assignment.”