Two contractors of Newport Theatre in Mong Kok convicted for illegally carrying out renovation works on holidays

     The renovation works sub-contractor at Newport Theatre in Mong Kok, Ngai Keung Decoration Construction Company Limited, which illegally carried out renovation works on holidays, and the main contractor, Parks Decoration & Engineering Limited, were convicted today (February 14). They were fined a total of $19,000 by Kwun Tong Magistrates' Courts for contravening the Noise Control Ordinance (NCO).

     A spokesperson for the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) said that the department conducted a blitz inspection in October last year and found that the sub-contractor concerned, when carrying out renovation works on holidays, used powered mechanical equipment and generated noise while conducting hammering works. No construction noise permit (CNP) was granted before the works commenced. After investigation and evidence gathering, the EPD prosecuted the sub-contractor in accordance with the NCO. The main contractor of the works concerned, who caused the illegal works being carried out by the sub-contractor, was also prosecuted.

     The spokesperson explained that the NCO aims to protect the public from disturbance of rest. Members of the construction industry should carry out works during the daytime and non-general holidays as far as possible to minimise noise disturbance to the nearby residents. If any works procedures have to be conducted during the restricted hours (between 7pm and 7am on the following day, or at any time on a general holiday), a permit must be obtained from the EPD in advance. The construction works shall commence only when the CNP has been granted upon completion of assessment to support its compliance with regulatory requirements. The construction works granted with the permit must also strictly comply with the relevant requirements of the CNP, only specified powered mechanical equipment can be used for the construction works and noise mitigation measures should be implemented, including the erection of fences and noise barriers at the sites, etc. Otherwise, it constitutes an offence. The main contractor should also monitor the construction works carried out by its sub-contractors during restricted hours to ensure all relevant regulations are complied with, or it may also be held liable. Under the NCO, first-time offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $100,000. A maximum fine of $200,000 may be imposed on second or subsequent convictions.