Revitalising Historic Buildings Through Partnership Scheme

The Revitalising Historic Buildings through Partnership Scheme () is an initiative launched by the Hong Kong Government, part of a broader policy of heritage conservation in Hong Kong. In order to preserve and put historic buildings into good use and promote public participation in conserving historic buildings, the Hong Kong Government has chosen Government-owned buildings for adaptive reuse under the Scheme.

, 8 properties have been opened in their new functions and 11 additional properties have been allotted for renovation. New uses include a museum, a marketplace, a 'creative arts psychological therapy centre', a facility to train guide dogs for the blind, and a leadership training centre with hostel.

Scope

Eligible applicants are non-profit-making organisations with charitable status under Section 88 of the Inland Revenue Ordinance (Cap 112) and joint ventures of two or more non-profit-making organisations. Participation requirements are broad, with equal weight promised to organisations regardless of size, age, or 'local experience in heritage conservation'.

Applicants submit proposals for using these buildings to provide services or business in the form of social enterprise. Submissions include detailed plans to show how:
* the historic buildings would be preserved
* their historical significance would be brought out effectively
* the social enterprise would operate in terms of financial viability
* the local community would benefit, especially in terms of jobs and cultural landmarks.

Funding can be entirely independent, or government funding support may be available. Government funding may come in the form of a grant for renovation, reduced rental fees, or a grant to assist with start-up costs and early operating costs.

The Advisory Committee on Built Heritage Conservation (ACBHC) – composed of experts in development and conservation – then assesses the proposals. After two rounds of assessment, the ACBHC chooses the bidding winner.

Revitalisation work

Batch I

Batch I of the Scheme started in February 2008. Batch I of the Scheme included seven buildings:
* Fong Yuen Study Hall in Ma Wan in Lai Chi Kok – built in 1921–1924, Grade III historic building
* Lui Seng Chun in Mong Kok – built in 1931, Grade I historic building
* Mei Ho House in Sham Shui Po – built in 1954, Grade I (now Grade II)
* North Kowloon Magistracy in Sham Shui Po – built in 1960, not yet graded (later Grade II)
* Old Tai Po Police Station