Feasibility and challenges of cultural landscape and countryside conservation: A case study of the ngong ping tea factory

In Hong Kong, while many rural areas have remained relatively untouched due to their remote locations, certain regions continue to face pressure for further development. As a result, there is an urgent need to conserve or document the remaining cultural heritage resources in these areas. However, not all landowners support conservation efforts, particularly when the land holds significant economic potential. This study investigates the constraints and challenges encountered in initiating a conservation project at the privately owned Ngong Ping Tea Estate, a site distinguished by its significant cultural landscape in Hong Kong. Most of the buildings at the Tea Estate are not protected under the current built heritage conservation framework, and much of the land falls under the “recreation” zoning category, which is statutorily approved under Hong Kong’s Town Planning Ordinance. This zoning encourages the development of both active and passive recreation, as well as tourism, in line with the surrounding tourist destinations. The development rights associated with the site present an attractive opportunity for the landowner; however, they also pose a substantial challenge to preserving the cultural heritage in situ. By sharing the preliminary conservation efforts undertaken by our team, this study aims to highlight the difficulties faced by researchers and other stakeholders while exploring potential solutions through ongoing engagement and collaboration with relevant parties.