Private recreation leases have a long and contentious history in Hong Kong. Complaints about the inequity of granting land leases to private clubs at a nominal premium for the exclusive enjoyment of a small number of members have been raised many times. This issue is increasingly pressing. Twenty-seven sites are involved and almost all the leases for these sites are set for renewal next year.
In response to this perceived inequality, the government reviewed its policy for clubs with private recreation leases in 2018. The public consultation found general support for the clubs, citing their contributions to sports development and promotion, ethnic harmony, attracting foreign talent, encouraging economic development and more. The review ultimately agreed and recommended retaining the clubs.
National sports associations (NSAs) said during the consultation that they were frequent users of sports clubs’ facilities for squad training, league competitions and major international events. They also said club facilities helped bridge the gap between public facilities provided by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department and the top training facilities of the Hong Kong Sports Institute.
A reform policy based on opening up clubs to use by non-members was eventually accepted as the way forward. Changes required the clubs to provide greater public access to their facilities.