Pro-democracy retailer ordered to make multiple rectifications as Buildings Dep’t threatens court

As One, a pro-democracy retailer in Hong Kong known for selling books and groceries, faces government orders to rectify several building code violations at its Prince Edward shop. The Buildings Department has mandated the replacement of the store's exterior signboard and adjustments to air conditioning units, citing breaches of the Buildings Ordinance.

The retailer, run by former District Councillor Derek Chu, received initial letters from the department last October, shortly after renting the premises on Tai Nan Street. Authorities also ordered the dismantling of iron sheets covering the backyard, warning that the issues could pose a fire risk and inconvenience the public. Chu expressed surprise at the speed of the enforcement, stating it was "unprecedentedly fast" compared to his experience as a District Councillor, where more time is usually granted for rectifications.

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The speed of the enforcement was unprecedentedly fast. According to my experience as a District Councillor, the government usually allows more time for tenants and shop owners to coordinate on how to make rectifications.

Chu contends that the signboard in question was installed 20 years prior to As One occupying the unit. He added a steel sheet with the business's Chinese name to the existing structure, emphasizing that no major construction was undertaken to save costs. He questioned the selective enforcement, suggesting that if As One faces prosecution, then "all [businesses with] signboards in Hong Kong should be prosecuted."

As One began dismantling the signage on Monday and plans to address the other required rectifications. The landlord will share the estimated HK$30,000 cost. The situation highlights ongoing complaints from pro-democracy businesses in Hong Kong about heightened bureaucratic scrutiny since the implementation of the 2020 security law. As One has a history of pro-democracy activism, including distributing candles on the anniversary of the 1989 Tiananmen crackdown.

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The signboard was actually constructed 20 years ago, long before As One occupied the unit. No major construction was made because we wanted to save money… And the signboard has been there for 20 years. If we are to be prosecuted, then all the [businesses with] signboards in Hong Kong should be prosecuted.