Arup celebrates the opening of the Central Kowloon Bypass (Yau Ma Tei Section), transforming east–west connectivity

This dual three-lane bypass stretches 4.7 kilometres, connecting the Yau Ma Tei Interchange in West Kowloon with the Kai Tak Development Area and Kowloon Bay in East Kowloon. It includes a 3.9-kilometre tunnel running beneath some of the most densely built-up areas in the city with two complex interchanges at both ends.

By enabling traffic to bypass central Kowloon, the new route will significantly reduce congestion and improve journey reliability. Travel time between Yau Ma Tei and Kowloon Bay during peak hours can now take about 5 minutes instead of the usual 30 minutes.

The Arup and Mott MacDonald joint venture delivered comprehensive multidisciplinary services for the project from conception through to completion. Over the years, the team has successfully navigated complex engineering challenges, drawing on expertise in transportation, environmental protection, highways, tunnelling, bridge structures, mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) and ventilation design.

Working within highly constrained conditions, including tunnelling beneath existing buildings while maintaining live traffic in one of Hong Kong’s busiest districts, the Arup and Mott MacDonald team adopted advanced digital tools and innovative engineering solutions to safely manage risks throughout construction.

A defining environmental feature of the project is the extensive landscaping and urban greenery introduced along the bypass, creating high-quality public spaces and new recreational opportunities for the community. The Yau Ma Tei Landscaped Deck, spanning approximately 32,000 square metres, provides a vital green connection between Yau Ma Tei and the landscaped deck of West Kowloon Station, encouraging active travel and enhancing walkability across the district.

Sustainability has been embedded at the heart of the project’s design and delivery. The Kai Tak Administration Building has achieved the Platinum Rating in the Final Assessment under the “BEAM Plus New Buildings Version 2.0” issued by the Hong Kong Green Building Council.

The Central Kowloon Bypass (Yau Ma Tei Section) also passes through areas of significant heritage and conservation value. Throughout planning and construction, the project team worked closely with stakeholders to safeguard the character and integrity of important local landmarks, including the former Yau Ma Tei Police Station, Temple Street Night Market, Tin Hau Temple at Yau Ma Tei and Kowloon City Ferry Pier, ensuring the district’s cultural identity is preserved alongside modern infrastructure development.