HSK/HT NDA is endowed with diverse and rich ecological resources. During the planning process, nature-based solutions are emphasised, integrating with blue-green design principle to achieve the dual goals of urban development and biodiversity conservation. Key design elements include revitalisation of existing river channels and creation of riverside open spaces, nurturing a harmonious natural environment that enhances biodiversity and habitat connectivity. Additionally, by implementing the “Single Site, Multiple Use” concept, the development features floodable open spaces and multifunctional flood storage ponds within regional parks. These not only strengthen the drainage capacity of surrounding rural areas but also provide the community with versatile public spaces. The designs enhance the community’s climate and ecological resilience, promote efficient land use, and ultimately create a liveable and enjoyable environment for residents.

Urban-rural integration is one of the key development goals of the Northern Metropolis. As one of its four core zones, HSK/HT NDA not only drives urban growth but also places strong emphasis on enhancing the rural environment and upgrading countryside facilities. It actively conserves and revitalises rural resources, while respecting traditional village lifestyles and preserving local cultural identity. The planning approach focuses on softening the urban-rural interface by retaining heritage and creating spaces for traditional activities such as the Ha Tsuen Tai Ping Ching Chiu held once a decade and Chinese Opera, as well as the Tuen Mun Tin Hau Festival, allowing the blending of old and new to become a bridge between the past and the future. The entire development process embraces co-creation, fostering cross-sector collaboration among the community, government, and stakeholders to build a culturally rich and liveable environment that strengthens residents’ sense of identity and belonging.

HSK/HT NDA is built around an efficient and convenient transportation network that links multiple development centres within the area, as well as the Yuen Long South New Development Area. It integrates seamlessly with major public transport interchanges, providing nearby rural villages with easy access to public transit. Residents can effortlessly transfer across the Tuen Ma Line, Light Rail, and other transit modes, complemented by a well-developed network of cycling paths to support smooth travel inside and outside the district. The planning also includes pedestrian-friendly streets that integrate people-centric design with community spaces, encouraging commercial activity and social interaction. The NDA actively promotes green mobility and introduces a real-time adaptive traffic signal system to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and lower carbon emissions, contributing to a walkable, liveable, and sustainable urban environment.

Leveraging its strategic location and the convenience of future cross-border rail link connections, HSK/HT NDA is committed to expanding high-end professional services such as finance, wealth management, and legal sectors, establishing a key commercial hub within the district. The plan also reserved land for the development of a modern logistic cluster, introducing innovative logistics systems including robotic technologies to support industry upgrading and smart applications. With comprehensive industrial support and spatial planning, the NDA attracts overseas enterprises and talents, fostering innovation and economic vitality. The overall development not only stimulates prosperity within the area and neighbouring new towns, but also harmonises urban dynamism with quality of life, striving to build a modern city environment that is both liveable and business friendly.