Arup Delivers Central Kowloon Bypass Yau Ma Tei Section

New east–west transport capacity in dense urban conditions
The Central Kowloon Bypass (Yau Ma Tei Section) opened to traffic on 21 December 2025, introducing a new strategic road corridor across one of Hong Kong’s most congested urban areas. The route strengthens east–west connectivity across Kowloon by allowing through-traffic to bypass surface roads in central districts.

The bypass comprises a dual three-lane highway extending 4.7 kilometres between the Yau Ma Tei Interchange in West Kowloon and the Kai Tak Development Area and Kowloon Bay in East Kowloon.

Tunnel-led alignment and interchange design
A central feature of the project is a 3.9-kilometre tunnel constructed beneath densely built-up districts, with major interchanges at both ends. The alignment was developed to minimise surface disruption while accommodating high traffic volumes within a constrained urban footprint.

Peak-hour travel times between Yau Ma Tei and Kowloon Bay have been reduced from approximately 30 minutes to around five minutes, improving network efficiency and journey-time reliability.

Multidisciplinary engineering delivery
Arup, working in a joint venture with Mott MacDonald, delivered multidisciplinary services spanning planning, highways, tunnelling, bridge structures, environmental protection, mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, and tunnel ventilation.

Construction was carried out under complex constraints, including tunnelling beneath existing buildings and maintaining live traffic flows in one of Hong Kong’s busiest districts. Digital engineering tools and risk-management methods were used to coordinate interfaces and manage construction safety.

Urban integration and environmental considerations
Beyond transport performance, the project incorporates urban landscaping and public realm enhancements. The Yau Ma Tei Landscaped Deck, covering approximately 32,000 square metres, creates a pedestrian and green connection between Yau Ma Tei and West Kowloon Station, supporting walkability and active travel.

Sustainability measures were embedded in associated developments, including the Kai Tak Administration Building, which achieved a Platinum rating under the BEAM Plus New Buildings Version 2.0 assessment framework.

Heritage-sensitive infrastructure development
The bypass passes through areas with recognised cultural and historical significance. Project planning and construction were coordinated with stakeholders to protect nearby heritage assets, including the former Yau Ma Tei Police Station, Temple Street Night Market, Tin Hau Temple at Yau Ma Tei, and Kowloon City Ferry Pier.

By integrating transport capacity, environmental design, and heritage protection, the Central Kowloon Bypass (Yau Ma Tei Section) represents a large-scale urban infrastructure project developed within stringent spatial, environmental, and operational constraints.

www.arup.com