AECOM JV Wins Hong Kong Metropolis Contract
AECOM, a globally recognized leader in infrastructure development, has announced its selection in a joint venture by the Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government for the design and construction of Package 3 of the First Phase Development of the New Territories North – San Tin / Lok Ma Chau Development Node. This large-scale project is a crucial part of the Northern Metropolis initiative, a transformative urban development expected to accommodate approximately 2.5 million people while fostering economic growth, technological innovation, and sustainable urban planning.
Ian Chung, Chief Executive of AECOM’s Asia region, expressed pride in the continued partnership with CEDD. “We are honored to strengthen our collaboration with the Civil Engineering and Development Department and play a pivotal role in shaping the Northern Metropolis. With our expanded involvement in the San Tin Technopole project, AECOM will assemble a multi-disciplinary team to deliver high-quality technical expertise, cutting-edge digital solutions, and nature-positive approaches to establish a world-class innovation and technology hub that prioritizes community well-being.”
Scope of Work and Key Deliverables
The AECOM joint venture, in collaboration with AtkinsRéalis, will provide a broad range of services for Package 3. These include:
- Design and Tender Services – Developing comprehensive plans and supervising the tendering process.
- Construction Supervision – Overseeing site formation and key engineering infrastructure developments.
- Urban-Rural Integration – Ensuring a harmonious balance between urban expansion and rural conservation.
- Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) – Implementing eco-friendly measures to enhance sustainability.
- Open Space and Landscape Design – Creating green spaces, revitalized waterways, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
- Digital Innovation – Deploying a unified digital twin platform to enhance planning and project execution.
- Environmental Monitoring and Mitigation – Reducing ecological impact and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Scheduled for completion by 2038, the approximately 190-hectare development will accommodate a mix of technological, residential, commercial, and community spaces to support the innovation and technology industry. The project aims to optimize land use while balancing modern urbanization with environmental and cultural conservation.
Sustainable and Future-Ready Infrastructure
AECOM’s design strategy integrates sustainable, climate-resilient elements. The urban-rural approach features nature-positive infrastructure, including:
- Revitalized Green Spaces – Open areas and ecological zones that improve community well-being and biodiversity.
- Waterfront and River Restoration – Enhancing natural waterways to improve water quality and ecological sustainability.
- Community and Cultural Centers – Facilities designed for public engagement, cultural heritage preservation, and recreational activities.
- Pedestrian and Cycling Connectivity – A landscaped deck facilitating seamless, eco-friendly transport modes.
With sustainability at its core, the project incorporates advanced engineering techniques and climate-resilient designs to create a future-ready metropolis.
Digital Transformation and Smart City Integration
To align with Hong Kong’s Smart City strategy, AECOM will spearhead the implementation of a unified digital twin platform for the entire San Tin Technopole project. This advanced system will support planning, execution, and ongoing management by:
- Enhancing Visualization – Enabling real-time monitoring of project progress.
- Data-Driven Decision Making – Improving accuracy in infrastructure design and asset management.
- Integration with Government Initiatives – Aligning with Common Spatial Data Infrastructure (CSDI) and Integrated Capital Works Platform (iCWP) for seamless collaboration.
By leveraging digitalization, AECOM aims to create a more connected, efficient, and responsive urban environment, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to innovation-driven urban planning.
Building on a Legacy of Success
The contract award follows AECOM’s successful execution of Package 1, which covers the design and supervision of a 250-hectare section of San Tin. AECOM is also engaged in the Investigation Study for Sam Po Shue Wetland Conservation Park, a 348-hectare site northwest of San Tin Technopole, marking Hong Kong’s first wetland conservation park under the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy.
With over 40 years of experience in Hong Kong’s new town development, AECOM has played a critical role in shaping the city’s urban landscape. The firm continues to collaborate with CEDD and other stakeholders to ensure that the Northern Metropolis integrates seamlessly with broader regional initiatives, fostering long-term resilience and sustainability.
Industry Leadership and Vision
Bane Gaiser, Chief Executive of AECOM’s Global Buildings + Places business, emphasized the firm’s commitment to sustainable urban development. “As industry leaders in designing complex urban environments, we take pride in delivering pioneering projects in Hong Kong and globally. With expertise in sustainable solutions and nature-based approaches, we look forward to shaping vibrant, climate-resilient communities that will define Hong Kong’s future.”
By bringing together world-class engineering, design innovation, and environmental stewardship, AECOM aims to set a new benchmark for urban development, transforming the Northern Metropolis into a modern, resilient, and dynamic cityscape that will serve generations to come.
