Historical buildings, sites, and ancient structures may receive legal protection in Hong Kong under the Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance .In this case, the Antiquities Authority may, after consulting the Antiquities Advisory Board and with the approval of the Chief Executive and the publication of the notice in government gazette, legally declare a place to be protected. In practice, the Chief Executive will consult the Executive Council in controversial cases.

Many items selected for preservation are in poor structural condition. For instance, some old traditional Chinese buildings are sadly dilapidated, villages are deserted, and ancient forts fall into ruins and are overgrown by vegetation. To ensure their continued preservation and maintenance, extensive repairs and restoration have to be undertaken, and considerable traditional skills and craftsmanship employed. The Antiquities and Monuments Office has to cope with diverse problems of restoring old structures in which it receives technical assistance from the Architectural Services Department and other concerned bodies.


- Summary of the Report on Site Investigation and Restoration Options --
   King Yin Lei at 45 Stubbs Road, Hong Kong