Hong Kong Helpers Urge Pedestrian Zone Expansion as Central Garden Closes for Underpass

A section of a popular garden in Hong Kong's Central district will temporarily close for underpass construction. A migrant workers' group urges authorities to expand pedestrian areas on Sundays.

Thu May 21 2026

Central Garden Closure and Impact on Migrant Workers

A section of Statue Square Gardens in Hong Kong's Central district, a popular gathering spot for domestic helpers, is set to temporarily close for the construction of a pedestrian underpass. In response, a Hong Kong migrant workers’ group has urged authorities to expand a pedestrian area in Central on Sundays. This subway is part of the tender requirements for a Central harbourfront site secured by developer Henderson Land Development, and will connect the Central MTR station at Chater Road.

Background and Purpose of Underpass Construction

The pedestrian underpass is a component of the development project for a waterfront site in Central, secured by Henderson Land Development. Its purpose is to enhance connectivity between the Central MTR station and the waterfront. The closure of the garden is expected to impact the weekend activities of migrant domestic helpers by removing a vital space for rest and social interaction.

*Source: SCMP (2026-05-21)*

Tags: #Hong Kong #Migrant Workers #Central #Garden #Infrastructure