More than 60 percent of fresh and dry food stores near Kowloon Market have agreed to participate in the transitional arrangement. Some stores with a rich history have chosen to reopen after the redevelopment of Kowloon’s old town, said Wai Chi-sing, director of the Urban Renewal Authority (URA).

Wai wrote in his blog that the three types of shops in the Nga Tsin Wai Road and Carpenter Road Development Scheme have submitted their letters of intent for the relocation.

He pointed out that 60 percent of the dry and fresh food stores in the area have agreed to participate in the transitional arrangement. The Chaoshan store with a history of 50 years and the Thai eateries that have been established in the area for years have also decided to reopen after the redevelopment.

As for the other entrepreneurs who did not opt ​​for the relocation proposal, Wai said some businesses found out that the URA would provide reparations and thought the funds would be sufficient to move to a nearby location and restart their business.

Wai also said that they have invited local and foreign artists to beautify the exterior walls of buildings, streets and alleys by highlighting the history and culture of Kowloon City, incorporating Thai and Chaozhou features into the exterior murals.

The first batch of artworks is expected to be exhibited at the end of July.

He added that they will also set up photo opportunities near pedestrian areas, which will attract more people, by filling the area with art that highlights the living conditions and stories of Kowloon City in different eras.