These strategies provide a bridge between territorial and local planning. They translate the territorial goals into more specific planning objectives for the five sub-regions of Hong Kong, namely, the Metro Area, Northeast New Territories, Northwest New Territories, Southeast New Territories and Southwest New Territories.

A review of all five sub-regional development strategies, examining the need and feasibility of additional opportunities for new homes, offices, factories, supporting community services as well as the necessary infrastructural facilities, has been completed in line with the Territorial Development Strategy.

The latest round of territorial planning, the 'Hong Kong 2030: Planning Vision and Strategy' study which is still ongoing, has revealed that population growth could be significantly lower than earlier postulations and that social and economic interactions with the Mainland have become more intensified. These changes have prompted the need for a critical review of previously identified new development areas.

Within the Metro Area, greater planning efforts are now focused on local area improvements, particularly for the older urban core and the harbourfront, with a view to improving the quality of the environment. To this end, there have been a number of planning studies, including the preparation of a Pedestrian Plans for Central District and Causeway Bay and an Area Improvement Plan for Tsim Sha Tsui. Meanwhile, the Government is also working closely with the Harbourfront Enhancement Committee (an advisory body consisting of representatives from a wide range of community interests) to review the Harbour Plan.