EPD welcomes last concrete batching plant in Yau Tong to cease operation from mid-June
The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) announced today (May 14) that it has been notified by the operator of the concrete batching plant at 6 Tung Yuen Street, Yau Tong, that it plans to fully cease the operation of concrete production at the plant from mid-June. The operator will also withdraw the renewal application of the plant's specified process licence, followed by demolition works.
The Environmental Protection Department (EPD), Photo source: reference image
An EPD spokesperson said that the plant's specified process licence had expired on August 23, 2025. According to the Air Pollution Control Ordinance (the Ordinance), if an applicant submits a licence renewal application before the licence expires, the licence will remain valid until the application is refused. The EPD has been handling the renewal application in accordance with the Ordinance.
Throughout the review process, the EPD has maintained close communication with the applicant. Given the plant's limited space, its very close proximity to residential premises, and that residents have gradually moved into surrounding residential developments, the EPD has repeatedly advised the applicant to find a suitable location for operation.
Since then, the plant has gradually reduced its concrete output and strengthened mitigation measures to minimise impacts on nearby residents. On March 27, 2026, the operator notified the EPD that it plans to cease concrete production from mid-June. The EPD welcomes this decision, believing it will help alleviate the pollution nuisance suffered by nearby residents. The EPD will also conduct detailed discussions with the concrete batching plant on arrangements including the cessation of operations, the withdrawal of the renewal application, and the proper clearance of remaining materials.
The spokesperson emphasised that the EPD has all along been committed to protecting the environment. In the past few years, the EPD has continued to follow up on environmental issues of concrete batching plants in the Yau Tong area. The EPD refused licence renewal applications for concrete batching plants at 20 and 22 Tung Yuen Street, Yau Tong, in 2022 and 2021 respectively, and issued a total of 41 summonses to the operators of these two plants for criminal prosecutions, with 32 of the charges convicted, resulting in a total fine of $255,000. Apart from strict enforcement, the Government is also actively taking forward amendments to relevant legislation and, together with publicity and educational efforts, is working to create a healthy and pleasant living environment for the public. The decision of the concrete batching plant at 6 Tung Yuen Street to fully cease the operation of concrete production marks the formal conclusion of the last large-scale cement production operation in the Yau Tong area, which is of significant importance in improving the air quality and living environment of the district.
The concrete batching plant, Photo source: reference image
