(Letter from Professor Michael Hui, Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor, to staff, students and alumni, dated 2 9 June 2006)

Slope Stability Improvement Works
Around Theology Building

Dear Colleagues, Students, Alumni,

The University has recently received comments from alumni on the slope stability improvement works around the Theology Building. We truly appreciate your concern about the University's environment, and I would like to take this opportunity to tell you more about the slope works.

(1) Slope Safety

    1. According to the consultant's assessment report, the safety factor of the four sections along the slope near the Theology Building are 1.24, 0.92, 0.73 and 0.56 respectively. Three sections are proved to be below/far below 1.00. This indicates a possible danger of collapse.
    2. The road along the slope crest is the only vehicular access to the Theology Building. Any case of slope failure or landslide will definitely affect the road. No vehicles, including fire engines and ambulances, would be able to reach the building should such an emergency arise.
    3. Soil debris from slope failure would be washed down the stream causing blockage. During downpours, the low-lying areas would be flooded.

Based on the assessment report and the impact of a possible slope collapse, the University considers it necessary to carry out slope stability improvement works on the slope near the Theology Building.

(2) Three Major Considerations:

    1. No impact on existing trees.
    2. No impact on the present appearance of the stream course and the original width of the stream will be maintained.
    3. No impact on the only access to the Theology Building.

After thorough consideration, the University agrees that the construction of a retaining wall is the most effective approach to the problem.

(3) Original Landscape of the Slope

Even before the current slope works are carried out, the slope near the Theology Building was not part of the original natural landscape. It had been covered by a chunam surface and a masonry toe wall many years ago for stability purposes (see photos).

However, due to wear and tear, the wall structure appears to have loosened. To ensure safety of the slope and the road at the slope crest, slope stability improvement works are believed to be necessary.

The impact on underground water has been studied. To facilitate drainage of groundwater and to maintain water flow, permeable rocks will be used for recompaction. Filter layer and weepholes will also be installed. These will guarantee the normal flow of groundwater.

The current works project serves to heighten and reinforce the retaining wall. For landscaping enhancement purpose, stone facing with random pattern has been selected for the finishing of the wall (see photo).

(4) Work Schedule

The slope stability improvement works near the Theology Building commenced in mid-February 2006. Stage One involved the installation of temporary soil nail. Stage Two, which began in mid-April 2006, involves the construction of the retaining wall.

(5) Vetting of Work Projects

The whole slope stability improvement works near the Theology Building is funded by the Capital Grants of the HKSAR Government. Institutions are required to submit detailed project proposals in order to apply for funding. Projects can only commence upon approval by the University Grants Committee and the Architectural Service Department. Having met all the required standards and obtained approval in January 2006, the University had subsequently begun the works.

The University has always striven to maintain balance between campus development and environment conservation. To further enhance communication, the University welcomes suggestions from all alumni.

Michael K. Hui
Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor
29 June 2006