Queen’s Pier is going to be dismantled following the controversial demolition of the Central Star Ferry Pier in December 2006. Local architects and district councilors said the pier has historical value and should be preserved.
Queen's pier has handed over its function to Pier Number Nine and is to be dismantled according to the Central reclamation plans.The government has not decided where to reassemble the pier.
Central and Western District councilor Cheng Lai-king said Queen's Pier should be preserved at its existing location. “The pier will lose its historical value if it's relocated,” she said. She said preserving historic landmarks can help the younger generation understand Hong Kong's history.
The Queen's Pierwas a traditional landing point for British governors and royalty when they arrived on Hong Kong Island during colonial times. Queen Elizabeth II landed there in 1975. Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales,also landed there in November 1989. The pier represents the colonial history of Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Institue of Architects Chairman Bernard Lam said the pier has historical value. He said when the governors arrived at Hong Kong to report duty, welcoming ceremonies were held at the Edinburgh Place, which is in front of Queen’s Pier. “This scene [Governors arriving at Queen’s Pier and welcomed at Edinburgh Place] is part of Hong Kong history,” he said.
The pier was also a public pier. Pleasure crafts were allowed to dock.Some Hong Kongers also take pleasure in fishing at the pier.
The structure of the pier consists of tiled concrete base and pillars. Assistant Professor of Department of Architecture of University of Hong Kong, Lee Ho-yin, said the pier does not have particular architectural value.
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