The Macau government has confirmed that Galaxy Entertainment Group will be responsible for the revitalization of the Lai Chi Vun Shipyard area, with the project to include a historic gallery and an ice skating rink.
Providing details on Thursday, it was revealed that GEG will complete the project across two phases, with the first to include a gallery on the history of the Lai Chi Vun area and the shipbuilding industry, with technological elements, guided tours, workshops and exchange activities. There will also be a variety of art installations, a cultural and creative bazaar, children’s play equipment, a large bicycle and scooter playground, and a food court in the area.
In the second phase, an ice-skating rink with synthetic ice will be set up, and an arts team will be invited to create a gathering place for local arts and culture. An urban farm will also be established in the area, with a new-generation cultural bookstore and café.
GEG Vice Chairman Francis Lui said, “The first phase of the project will be carried out within this year, and it is believed the works will be substantially completed in the third quarter. For the second phase, we will continue to discuss the project with the Government. The investment amount can only be confirmed when the project is fully realized.”
The Macau government previously took over certain areas of the Lai Chi Vun Shipyard and opened them to the public in June, incorporating attractions such as exhibitions and workshops. However, visitor numbers to the area are still believed to be only 8,000 to 9,000 per month.
Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Ao Ieong U, pointed out that the Cultural Affairs Bureau has not done enough to encourage SMEs to move into the district.
“Through concessionaires’ participation, we hope to promote the development of cultural industries and SMEs in the region,” she said.
“During the pandemic, the government deliberately carried out works in the old districts to beautify them. During last year’s tender we also discussed community tourism with the concessionaires, including how to promote tourism through community revitalization, so that SMEs could move in.
“We designated some areas and the Government discussed with the concessionaires about the areas they could plan for, but the Government did not make it compulsory for them to choose those areas.
“At that time, Galaxy indicated that they would like to revitalize the Lai Chi Vun Shipyard.”
