`A  Unified Campus’ is one of the key planning principles of the University’s campus development. Upon completion in 2012, the Centennial Campus will be linked with the Main Campus by a University Street (U-Street) – a two-level spacious and open east-west walkway for pedestrians, and where various educational and social activities can also be held. The U-street also provides linkages with entrances of MTRC station to be in operation by 2014.

The construction of the University Street will affect the existing premises of the Hong Kong University Students’ Union (HKUSU) in Hsu Long Sing Amenities Centre, the Simon KY Lee Hall and the Chow Yei Ching Building.

Discussion sessions have been held with the affected parties since 2008. Issues raised included the future spatial allocation of the Union Restaurant, the offices and activity area of the HKUSU, the temporary arrangements during construction, and the impact on the podium of the Simon KY Lee Hall.

In September 2009, a revised proposal was developed by the architect, Wong and Ouyang (HK) Ltd. and the U-Street was realigned so that the impact on the Students’ Union and the Simon KY Lee Hall was further minimised.

Jointly organized by the Centre of Development and Resources for Students (CEDARS) and the HKUSU, a consultation session on the design was held on 17 September 2009. According to the latest proposal, the Union restaurant will be relocated to the Haking Wong Covered Podium, and the HKUSU will be temporarily relocated to the Technology, Innovation and Incubation Building (TIIB) from June 2010 to June 2011. The impact on the Simon KY Lee Hall podium will be minimum.

The revised proposal has been received positively by the HKUSU. It increases the floor area of the HKUSU and at the same time fulfills the catering needs of staff and students. Other outstanding issues, including the arrangements for the temporary relocation to TIIB, and the modification of the covered area of the future Haking Wong podium, will be discussed at a later stage.

Dr Albert Chau, Dean of Student Affairs was pleased that the revised proposal has received support from the HKUSU. “This proposal has struck a balance between the needs of campus development and student activities. It is a good example of mutual understanding and accommodation betwoon the University and the students..”