The University of Hong Kong and the Water Supplies Department (WSD) signed an agreement on October 10, 2007.  The agreement, for which the WSD facilities will be re-provisioned by HKU, signifies a new chapter of long-term partnership between HKU and WSD that has existed for nearly a century. 

"The history of the University's development has been interwoven with the history of water supplies to the Western District.  The cooperation between the University and WSD dates back to the early 20th Century." said Vice-Chancellor Professor Lap-Chee Tsui.

The site of the Centennial Campus to the west of the main campus is now occupied by WSD freshwater and saltwater reservoirs.  The reservoirs have stood for more than 60 years, serving western Mid-levels, Kennedy Town and the Peak.  Re-provisioning Works have already commenced.  Upon completion in September 2009, the construction of the Centennial Campus will begin.  

The infrastructure works include an innovative engineering method of excavating tunnels for the storage of saltwater, which is being used for the first time in Hong Kong.  As a green solution, housing the reservoirs in tunnels would prevent significant excavation and loss of tree cover, which were both environmentally and aesthetically unacceptable.  

"The Centennial Campus will not only be a state-of-the-art campus which enhances the University's capacity for teaching, learning and research, it will also serve as a green oasis for the Central and Western District, and a welcoming, inspiring space that will promote a sense of pride in the University for generations to come," Professor Tsui added.  

The Director of Water Supplies Mr Chan Chi-chiu said: "The re-provisioning works bring about benefits to the water supply systems.  Some of our existing facilities are old and after re-provisioning we will be able to cut down our maintenance costs."  

"I am particularly delighted that HKU has decided to preserve three graded waterworks buildings of unique historic and heritage value.  These historic buildings, amidst the future Centennial Campus, will signify the partnership between the University of Hong Kong and the Water Supplies Department in the past century." added Mr Chan.