Led by Prof. Kwok-Fai Chung, Research Professor of CEE and Former Director of the Chinese National Engineering Research Centre for Steel Construction (Hong Kong Branch) (CNERC-Steel), the project titled “Groundbreaking Application of Ultra-high Strength S960 Steel in Civil Infrastructure: Paving the Way for Hong Kong's Green Construction” has been awarded the Local Grand Prize at the Construction Industry Council (CIC) Construction Innovation Award 2025. The project, executed for the Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD), was led by AECOM Asia Co. Ltd. in collaboration with the Joint Venture of Daewoo E&C, Chun Wo C&E, and Kwan Lee Holding (DCK JV). The project was expected to be completed this summer.
The Presentation Ceremony was held at the Zero Carbon Park of CIC on 21 January 2026, gathering around 150 construction professionals and engineers. The Ceremony was officiated by Ir Prof. Thomas Ho, Chairman of CIC, who welcomed all attendees, followed by Ir Ricky Chun-kit Lau, Permanent Secretary for Development (Works), HKSAR Government. who delivered the opening address and presented the award.
Prof. Chung received the award alongside Ir Michael Fong Hok-shing, Director of Civil Engineering and Development, representing a CEDD project. Under a MOU signed between CNERC-Steel and CEDD in June 2023, Prof. Chung has provided technical support to the innovative use of ultra-high strength S960 steel in construction as stiffened box sections for Footbridges F4 and F6 as replacements to in-site reinforced concrete box girders. This innovative approach resulted in significant savings in materials, construction costs, and time.
The Judging Panel commended the winning project for being the world's first application of S960 steel to two pedestrian bridges in the Northern Metropolitan area, effectively reducing their structural self-weights and the number of piles, leading to lower carbon emissions.
This prestigious recognition is a testament to the pioneering spirit and commitment to sustainability demonstrated by Prof. Chung and his team. Their groundbreaking work not only advances the construction industry in Hong Kong but also sets a benchmark for future innovations in green infrastructure.
