The authors of the project are the architects of the Herzog & de Meuron workshop. According to their idea, supported by local investors, an ensemble of several buildings built in the second half of the 19th century should turn into a modern cultural center with a theater, exhibition halls, a conference hall, etc. But architectural historians and local activists sharply opposed the project, believing that its very essence distorts the meaning of the historic buildings of the police station.
This complex, densely surrounded by skyscrapers, includes a courthouse, barracks and a prison cell, located on a 1.2 hectare site surrounded by a stone wall with barbed wire. It is well preserved, and the buildings themselves, despite their utilitarian function, are decorated in a neoclassical spirit. Prominent Chinese politicians, including Sun Yat-sen, the creator of the "new China", were held in the cells of the precinct at various times.
The Herzog & de Meuron project does not imply significant changes in the appearance of historic buildings: almost all of them will be preserved intact. But an openwork structure with several spiers should appear on the territory of the complex. Its structure will include several opaque volumes, including an auditorium for 500 seats, a theater for the same number of spectators, two cinemas for showing art-house and classic films, and a multifunctional exhibition space. The project also involves the creation of the infrastructure of a cultural center, possibly in the premises of historical buildings.
This lattice tower has caused the greatest objections of the "heritage guardians": it will reach a height of 130 - 160 m - to be higher than the 38-storey office complex located very close, but opponents of the project see in its size only the desire of foreign architects to create a "landmark" building to the detriment the historical and architectural heritage of Hong Kong.
While the implementation of the project remains in question: despite the exhibitions and presentations of their plans held by investors, the Hong Kong Jockey Club, a consensus with the public has not yet been found. The situation should be resolved during April 2008.
