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Peak Tramway Ordinance


Published: 2015-11-06

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Cap 265 - Peak Tramway Ordinance 1

Chapter: 265 Peak Tramway Ordinance Gazette Number Version Date

Long title 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


To authorize the construction of the Peak Tramway; to provide for the grant and termination of the operating right of
the Peak Tramway; to regulate the operation of the Peak Tramway.

(Amended 8 of 1912 s. 25; 16 of 2015 s. 3)


[3 November 1883]

(Originally 6 of 1883 (Cap 304 1950 Ed.))

(*Format changes—E.R. 2 of 2014)
__________________________________________________________________________
Note:
* The format of the Ordinance has been updated to the current legislative styles.

Section: 1 Short title E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


This Ordinance may be cited as the Peak Tramway Ordinance.
(Amended 8 of 1912 s. 25; 5 of 1924 s. 6)


Section: 2 Interpretation 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


In this Ordinance, unless the context otherwise requires-
company (公司) means the body corporate to which the operating right is granted under this Ordinance; (Amended

10 of 1926 s. 2; 16 of 2015 s. 4)
operating right (經營權) means the right to operate the tramway; (Added 16 of 2015 s. 4)
Secretary (局長) means the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development; (Added 16 of 2015 s. 4)
tramway (䌫車軌道、䌫車) includes tramcars used upon the tramway; (Added 26 of 1989 s. 2. Amended 16 of 2015

s. 4)
works or undertaking (工程、工程設施或業務) means the works or undertaking of whatever nature which by this

Ordinance are or is authorized to be executed. (Amended 20 of 1948 s. 4)

Section: 2A (Repealed 16 of 2015 s. 5) 16 of 2015 01/01/2016




Section: 2B Grant of the operating right 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


(1) The Chief Executive in Council may, on application and in any manner that the Chief Executive in Council
thinks fit, grant the operating right to a body corporate—
(a) on terms agreed between the Government and the body corporate; and
(b) for a period not exceeding 10 years.

(2) The operating right may be granted under subsection (1) to—
(a) the body corporate holding the operating right granted previously under subsection (1) or (5) or any other

provision of this Ordinance; or
(b) a body corporate that does not hold the operating right.

(3) In deciding whether or not to grant the operating right to a body corporate under subsection (1), the Chief
Executive in Council must take into account all relevant matters, including—
(a) the terms proposed by the body corporate;
(b) any representation made by the body corporate;
(c) whether the body corporate will be able to maintain the tramway as an important tourism and recreational

facility;
(d) the financial capability of the body corporate; and



Cap 265 - Peak Tramway Ordinance 2

(e) any relevant experience and performance of the body corporate in operating the tramway or any similar
facility.

(4) Subsection (5) applies if—
(a) the operating right is granted under subsection (1) for a period (current period); and
(b) the holder of the operating right applies for the grant of the operating right for a further period.

(5) The Chief Executive in Council must, subject to subsection (6), grant the operating right to the holder—
(a) on terms agreed between the Government and the holder; and
(b) for a further period not exceeding 10 years beginning on the expiry of the current period.

(6) The Chief Executive in Council must not grant the operating right under subsection (5) unless the Chief
Executive in Council is satisfied by evidence submitted by the holder that—
(a) the holder is committed to implementing a plan for modernizing and improving the tramway and ancillary

equipment and facilities;
(b) the holder is capable of implementing the plan; and
(c) the implementation of the plan will be conducive to maintaining the tramway as an important tourism and

recreational facility.
(7) The operating right may only be granted to a body corporate within the meaning of company in section 2(1) of

the Companies Ordinance (Cap 622).
(8) The operating right has effect subject to this Ordinance.
(9) To avoid doubt, the power under subsection (1) or (5) may be exercised in relation to a body corporate more

than once.
(Added 16 of 2015 s. 6)


Section: 2C Application for operating right 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


(1) An application for the operating right must be—
(a) made in writing to the Secretary; and
(b) accompanied by the information or materials that the applicant wishes to put forward in support of the

application.
(2) An application made after 1 January 2016 by the holder of the operating right for the grant of the operating right

for a further period under section 2B(1) or (5) may only be made before—
(a) if the current period for which the operating right is granted is longer than 3 years—the last 3 years of the

period; or
(b) if the current period for which the operating right is granted is 3 years or less—a date specified by the

Secretary for this subsection.
(3) The Chief Executive in Council must determine an application for the operating right without unreasonable

delay.
(Added 16 of 2015 s. 6)


Section: 3 Power to construct and work certain tramways 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


(1) During the period for which the operating right is granted, the company has—
(a) the right to occupy the tramway area for the purposes of the operating right; and
(b) the right to construct, maintain, work and use the tramway and all structures, equipment, works and

conveniences connected with the tramway. (Replaced 16 of 2015 s. 7)
(1A) The rights under subsection (1) are subject to the terms referred to in section 2B(1)(a) or (5)(a). (Added 16 of

2015 s. 7)
(1B) Sections 4, 5, 10 and 10A of the Land (Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance (Cap 28) do not apply to the

tramway area. (Added 16 of 2015 s. 7)
(2) The tramway referred to in subsection (1) is a partly single and partly double line, commencing from the

southwest boundary of Inland Lot 7977, thence passing in a southerly direction up the hillside, crossing over
Kennedy Road by means of a bridge and under Macdonnell Road, Magazine Gap Road and May Road Bridges
to the terminus at Victoria Gap terminating on the boundary of Rural Building Lot 1104, as shown on the Plan:
(Amended 16 of 2015 s. 7)
Provided that such alteration as the company thinks fit may be made to the position of the rail-tracks of the



Cap 265 - Peak Tramway Ordinance 3

tramway as shown on the Plan so long as they are within the limits of deviation shown on the Plan. (Replaced
57 of 1986 s. 3. Amended 8 of 1993 s. 2; 16 of 2015 s. 7)

(3) In this section—
Plan(《圖則》) means the plan numbered MH2528c signed on behalf of the Director of Lands and deposited in the

Land Registry;
tramway area(纜車軌道範圍) means the area delineated and coloured yellow on the Plan. (Added 16 of 2015 s. 7)
(4) The Secretary may, by notice published in the Gazette, amend the definition of Plan in subsection (3) by

replacing the reference to the plan in the definition with a reference to another plan. (Added 16 of 2015 s. 7)

Section: 4 Power to alter levels of ground etc. 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


Remarks:
For the saving and transitional provisions relating to the amendments made by the Resolution of the Legislative
Council (L.N. 130 of 2007), see paragraph (12) of that Resolution.


Subject to the approval of the Secretary, the company may alter the levels of the ground on which the tramway is laid,
make and construct all necessary cuttings and embankments, bridges, viaducts, culverts, catch-water drains, and other
works, and divert streams:
Provided that the earth excavated and thrown to waste is disposed of in such manner as to prevent its being washed
down by rain into the harbour.
(Amended 50 of 1911; 51 of 1911; 62 of 1911 Schedule; 63 of 1911 Schedule; 8 of 1912 s. 25; 26 of 1989 s. 7; L.N.
106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007; 16 of 2015 s. 8)

Section: 5 Power to make additional structures, equipment, etc. 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


Remarks:
For the saving and transitional provisions relating to the amendments made by the Resolution of the Legislative
Council (L.N. 130 of 2007), see paragraph (12) of that Resolution.


Subject to the approval of the Secretary, after timely and adequate notification by public advertisement or otherwise of
the intention of the company to apply for such approval, the company may construct and maintain, subject to the
provisions of this Ordinance and in accordance with plans to be previously deposited with the Secretary, all such
structures, equipment, and other works in addition to those particularly specified in and authorized by this Ordinance
as may be approved by the Secretary, and may work and use the same.
(Amended 50 of 1911 s. 4; 62 of 1911 Schedule; 8 of 1912 s. 25; 20 of 1948 s. 4; 26 of 1989 ss. 7 & 8; 27 of 1992 s.
4; L.N. 106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007; 16 of 2015 s. 9)

Section: 6 (Repealed 26 of 1989 s. 11) 30/06/1997




Section: 7 Protection of sewers, etc. 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


Remarks:
For the saving and transitional provisions relating to the amendments made by the Resolution of the Legislative
Council (L.N. 130 of 2007), see paragraph (12) of that Resolution.


(1) Where the tramway, or any work connected therewith, interferes with any sewer, drain, watercourse, or subway,

or in any way affects sewerage or drainage, the company shall not commence such tramway or work until it has
given to the Secretary 14 days' notice in writing of its intention to do so together with all necessary particulars
relating thereto, nor until the Secretary has signified his approval of the same, unless he does not signify his
approval, disapproval, or other directions within 14 days after service of the said notice and particulars.
(Amended 50 of 1911; 51 of 1911 s. 4; 62 of 1911 Schedule; 63 of 1911 Schedule; 20 of 1948 s. 4; 57 of 1986 s.
4; 26 of 1989 ss. 3 & 8)

(2) The company shall comply with the directions of the Secretary in the execution of the said works and shall



Cap 265 - Peak Tramway Ordinance 4

provide by new, altered, or substituted works, in such manner as he may require, for the proper protection of,
and for preventing injury or impediment to, the sewers and works hereinbefore referred to by or by reason of the
tramway, and shall save harmless the Secretary against the expense occasioned thereby. (Amended 50 of 1911;
51 of 1911; 62 of 1911 Schedule; 63 of 1911 Schedule; 8 of 1912 s. 25; 20 of 1948 s. 4; 26 of 1989 s. 8)

(3) All such works shall be done by or under the superintendence of the Secretary, at the cost and expense of the
company. (Amended 51 of 1911 s. 4; 20 of 1948 s. 4)

(4) When any new, altered, or substituted work is completed, the same shall thereafter be as completely under the
control of the Secretary, and be maintained by him, as any other sewers or works. (Amended 50 of 1911; 51 of
1911 s. 4; 62 of 1911 Schedule; 20 of 1948 s. 4)

(Amended 8 of 1912 s. 25; 26 of 1989 s. 8; L.N. 106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007; 16 of 2015 s. 10)

Section: 7A Power to enter adjoining lands, etc. 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


Remarks:
For the saving and transitional provisions relating to the amendments made by the Resolution of the Legislative
Council (L.N. 130 of 2007), see paragraph (12) of that Resolution.


(1) The Secretary may authorize the company, in case of any slip or other accident happening or being apprehended

to the tramway or any works under its control, to enter upon any land adjoining the tramway, for the purpose of
repairing or preventing the accident, and to do all works that may be necessary for that purpose. (Amended L.N.
106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007; 16 of 2015 s. 11)

(2) The company shall, at least 14 clear days before it enters upon the land pursuant to the Secretary's authorization
under subsection (1)- (Amended L.N. 106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007; 16 of 2015 s. 11)
(a) deliver to the owner of the land a notice of the authorization and the right for compensation under

subsection (5); and
(b) affix a copy of the notice upon a conspicuous part of the land to which the authorization relates.

(3) The company may in a case of urgency enter upon the land and do the works mentioned in subsection (1)
without the authority of the Secretary, but it shall, within 24 hours after the entry, make a report to the Secretary
specifying the nature of the happening and of the works necessary to be done, and the power of the company
under this subsection ceases if the Secretary notifies the company that the exercise of the power is not necessary
for the public safety. (Amended L.N. 106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007; 16 of 2015 s. 11)

(4) Where the company intends to enter upon the land under subsection (3), it shall, as soon as is practicable-
(a) deliver to the owner of the land a notice of its intention and the right for compensation under subsection (5);

and
(b) affix a copy of the notice upon a conspicuous part of the land to be entered upon,
but where in circumstances in which it is impracticable to comply with the requirement of paragraph (a) before it
enters upon the land, it shall, as soon as the entry has been made, deliver to the owner of the land a notice that
the entry has been made and of the right for compensation under subsection (5).

(5) Any person who suffers an injury to a private right in respect of an interest in land adjoining the tramway and
which directly arises from any work carried out under subsection (1) or (3) has a right against the company for
compensation in respect of actual loss fairly and reasonably arising from that injury.

(6) After the expiry of 3 months from the date of the submission of his claim to the company under subsection (5),
the claimant may, if the claim has not been agreed, submit his claim to the Lands Tribunal for determination and,
for this purpose, the Lands Tribunal has jurisdiction to determine the claim under the Lands Tribunal Ordinance
(Cap 17).

(7) No claim for compensation under subsection (5) shall be brought after the expiration of 3 years from the date on
which the injury on which the claim is founded was suffered.

(8) For the avoidance of doubt it is hereby declared that this section applies to the Government. (Amended 16 of
2015 s. 11)

(Added 27 of 1992 s. 5)

Section: 8 Settlement of differences between company and Secretary* 16 of 2015 01/01/2016


Remarks:
For the saving and transitional provisions relating to the amendments made by the Resolution of the Legislative



Cap 265 - Peak Tramway Ordinance 5

Council (L.N. 130 of 2007), see paragraph (12) of that Resolution.

(1) If any difference arises between the company and the Secretary with respect to any interference or control

exercised or claimed to be exercised by the company or the Secretary, by virtue of this Ordinance, in relation to
the tramway or any work, or in relation to any work or proceeding of the Secretary, or with respect to the
propriety or the mode of execution of any work relating to the tramway, or on the question whether any work is
such as ought to satisfy the Secretary, or with respect to any other subject or thing regulated by or comprised in
this Ordinance, the matter in difference shall (unless otherwise specially provided for by this Ordinance) be
settled by the Chief Executive in Council, on the application of either party. (Amended 50 of 1911; 51 of 1911
s. 4; 62 of 1911 Schedule; 63 of 1911 Schedule; 8 of 1912 s. 25; 20 of 1948 s. 4; 26 of 1989 s. 8; 62 of 1999 s. 3;
L.N. 106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007; 16 of 2015 s. 12)

(2) This section does not apply if the company is in default within the meaning of section 8A. (Added 16 of 2015 s.
12)


__________________________________________________________________________
Note:
* (Amended 16 of 2015 s. 12)

Section: 8A When is the company in default 16 of 2015 01/01/2016


For the purposes of sections 8B, 8C and 8E, the company is in default if—
(a) it fails to, or there is a substantial likelihood of it failing to, operate and maintain the tramway properly,

which results, or is likely to result, in—
(i) a substantial breakdown of the tramway system;
(ii) persons who travel on the tramway or who are on the tramway station or termini being endangered in a

manner that may result in serious injury to or death to those persons; or
(iii) serious injury to or death of those persons;

(b) it fails to comply with a term on which the operating right is granted;
(c) it appears insolvent to the extent that it is unable to maintain the tramway as an important tourism and

recreational facility; or
(d) any of the following circumstances occurs—

(i) a petition is presented for the winding up of the company under the Companies (Winding Up and
Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance (Cap 32);

(ii) the company has passed a resolution for voluntary winding up within the meaning of section 228(2) of
that Ordinance;

(iii) a winding-up statement is delivered under section 228A(1) of that Ordinance to the Registrar of
Companies in relation to the company.

(Added 16 of 2015 s. 13)

Section: 8B Secretary’s power in case of default 16 of 2015 01/01/2016


(1) This section applies if the company is or has been in default in the manner specified in section 8A(a), (b) or (c).
(2) The Secretary may issue a notice to the company requiring it to—

(a) remedy the default; and
(b) take effective measures to the satisfaction of the Secretary to prevent the default from recurring.

(3) The Secretary may conduct an inquiry into the financial condition of the company if the company is or has been
in default in the manner specified in section 8A(c).

(4) The Secretary must not issue a notice under subsection (2) on the ground that the company is or has been in
default in the manner specified in section 8A(c) unless the Secretary considers, after conducting an inquiry under
subsection (3), that the company is insolvent to the extent that it is unable to maintain the tramway as an
important tourism and recreational facility.

(5) A notice under subsection (2) must specify the period within which the requirement must be complied with.
(6) The period must be reasonable in the circumstances.
(7) If the company needs more time to comply with the requirement in the notice, it may apply in writing to the



Cap 265 - Peak Tramway Ordinance 6

Secretary for an extension of the period.
(8) On an application under subsection (7), the Secretary may extend the period for such time that the Secretary

considers reasonable in the circumstances.
(9) A period may be extended more than once under subsection (8).

(Added 16 of 2015 s. 13)

Section: 8C Notice of intention to terminate operating right 16 of 2015 01/01/2016


(1) This section applies if the Secretary—
(a) is of the opinion that the company has failed to comply with a notice issued to it under section 8B(2); and
(b) reports to the Chief Executive in Council that the company has failed to comply with the notice.

(2) The Chief Executive in Council may direct the Secretary to issue a notice to the company if it appears to the
Chief Executive in Council that—
(a) the company is or has been in default in the manner specified in section 8A(a), (b) or (c); and
(b) a notice issued under section 8B(2) for the default has not been complied with.

(3) A notice issued under subsection (2) must—
(a) inform the company of the intention of the Chief Executive in Council to terminate the operating right

granted to the company;
(b) be accompanied by—

(i) a copy of the notice issued under section 8B(2); and
(ii) a summary of the report referred to in subsection (1)(b); and

(c) point out the right to make representation under section 8D(1).
(Added 16 of 2015 s. 13)


Section: 8D Company may make representation 16 of 2015 01/01/2016


(1) If a notice is issued under section 8C(2), the company may make a written representation to the Chief Executive
in Council to show cause why an order should not be made under section 8E(1)(a).

(2) The representation must be made within—
(a) 28 days after the date of issue of the notice; or
(b) any further period the Chief Executive in Council allows.

(Added 16 of 2015 s. 13)

Section: 8E Order of termination 16 of 2015 01/01/2016


(1) The Chief Executive in Council may—
(a) by order terminate the operating right granted to the company if satisfied that—

(i) the company is or has been in default in the manner specified in section 8A(a), (b) or (c);
(ii) the procedures prescribed by sections 8B and 8C have been followed in relation to the default;
(iii) no sufficient cause has been shown under section 8D(1) why the order should not be made; and
(iv) it is just and reasonable to make the order; or

(b) by order terminate the operating right granted to the company if—
(i) the company is in default in the manner specified in section 8A(d); and
(ii) it appears to the Chief Executive in Council that the company is unable to maintain the tramway as an

important tourism and recreational facility.
(2) Before exercising the power under subsection (1)(a), the Chief Executive in Council must consider—

(a) the extent to which the default was or is caused by circumstances beyond the control of the company;
(b) any representation made under section 8D(1); and
(c) any other relevant matters.

(3) Before exercising the power under subsection (1)(b), the Chief Executive in Council must consider all relevant
matters.

(Added 16 of 2015 s. 13)




Cap 265 - Peak Tramway Ordinance 7

Section: 9 (Repealed 16 of 2015 s. 14) 16 of 2015 06/11/2015




Section: 10 (Repealed 16 of 2015 s. 14) 16 of 2015 06/11/2015




Section: 11 (Repealed 16 of 2015 s. 14) 16 of 2015 06/11/2015




Section: 11A Application of sections 11B and 11C 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


Sections 11B and 11C apply if—
(a) the operating right is to expire or is to be terminated under this Ordinance; and
(b) the operating right is not to be granted for a further period to the company.

(Added 16 of 2015 s. 15)

Section: 11B Mandatory lease of essential premises 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


(1) The Chief Executive in Council may order the person (lessor) who owns any essential premises to lease the
premises to a party (lessee) designated by the Chief Executive in Council.

(2) The power under subsection (1) must not be exercised unless the Chief Executive in Council is satisfied that
there is a substantial risk that the operation of the tramway will be disrupted if the power is not exercised.

(3) An order made under subsection (1) may contain directions that are reasonably required for ensuring compliance
with subsection (11).

(4) Subject to this Ordinance, the terms of the lease are to be agreed between the lessor and the lessee.
(5) The period of the lease—

(a) is to be determined by the Chief Executive in Council; and
(b) may begin, whether or not any term of the lease has yet to be agreed on.

(6) If an order is made under subsection (1), the lessee may, on the commencement of the lease, take possession of
the essential premises for the purposes of operating the tramway in accordance with—
(a) this Ordinance; and
(b) the terms of the operating right granted to the lessee under section 2B(1) or (5).

(7) Subsection (6) applies whether or not any term of the lease has yet to be agreed on.
(8) An order made under subsection (1) may, on an application by the Secretary to the Court of First Instance, be

enforced by an order of the Court as if it were a judgment or order of the Court.
(9) The lease confers on the lessee a right to—

(a) use the essential premises for the undertaking; and
(b) maintain the premises in a condition that is appropriate for use for the undertaking.

(10) The lessee must pay rent to the lessor for the essential premises of an amount equal to the open market rent—
(a) that the lessor may reasonably expect to receive under a lease of the premises; and
(b) that is to be determined in accordance with the terms of the lease.

(11) The lessor must ensure that when the lessee takes possession of the essential premises, the premises are in a
condition that is suitable for operating the tramway in accordance with—
(a) this Ordinance; and
(b) the terms referred to in section 2B(1)(a) or (5)(a) that apply immediately before the lease commences.

(12) In this section—
essential premises (必要處所) means any land, structure or building that is considered by the Chief Executive in

Council to be essential to operating the tramway.
(Added 16 of 2015 s. 15)


Section: 11C Mandatory sale of essential equipment 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


(1) The Chief Executive in Council may order the person (vendor) who owns an essential equipment to sell the



Cap 265 - Peak Tramway Ordinance 8

equipment to a party (purchaser) designated by the Chief Executive in Council.
(2) The power under subsection (1) must not be exercised unless the Chief Executive in Council is satisfied that

there is a substantial risk that the operation of the tramway will be disrupted if the power is not exercised.
(3) An order made under subsection (1) may contain directions that are reasonably required for ensuring compliance

with subsection (9).
(4) Subject to this Ordinance, the terms of the sale are to be agreed between the vendor and the purchaser.
(5) If an order is made under subsection (1), the purchaser may, on the expiry or termination of the period of the

operating right during which the order is made, take possession of the essential equipment for the purposes of
operating the tramway in accordance with—
(a) this Ordinance; and
(b) the terms of the operating right granted to the purchaser under section 2B(1) or (5).

(6) Subsection (5) applies whether or not any term of the sale has yet to be agreed on.
(7) An order made under subsection (1) may, on an application by the Secretary to the Court of First Instance, be

enforced by an order of the Court as if it were a judgment or order of the Court.
(8) The purchaser must pay a sum to the vendor for the essential equipment of an amount equal to the prevailing real

value of the equipment to be assessed as at—
(a) the date on which the ownership of the equipment is transferred from the vendor to the purchaser; or
(b) the date on which the purchaser takes possession of the equipment,
whichever is earlier.

(9) The vendor must ensure that when the purchaser takes possession of the essential equipment, the equipment is in
a condition that is suitable for operating the tramway in accordance with—
(a) this Ordinance; and
(b) the terms referred to in section 2B(1)(a) or (5)(a) that apply when the order is made.

(10) In this section—
essential equipment (必要設備) means any tramcar, motive power, works, plant, machinery, apparatus or article that

is considered by the Chief Executive in Council to be essential to operating the tramway.
(Added 16 of 2015 s. 15)


Section: 11D Resolution of disagreement over terms of lease or sale 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


(1) This section applies if—
(a) the lessor and the lessee under a lease effected because of an order under section 11B(1) fail to agree on the

rent payable under section 11B(10) or any other term of the lease; or
(b) the vendor and the purchaser under a sale effected because of an order under section 11C(1) fail to agree on

the sum payable under section 11C(8) or any other term of the sale.
(2) The matter that is not agreed on must be determined—

(a) if the lessor and the lessee agree, or the vendor and the purchaser agree, to resolve the matter by arbitration
—by arbitration under the Arbitration Ordinance (Cap 609); or

(b) if there is no agreement for resolving the matter by arbitration—by the Lands Tribunal.
(3) For an arbitration under subsection (2)(a)—

(a) the lessor and the lessee, or the vendor and the purchaser, are regarded as having made an arbitration
agreement within the meaning of the Arbitration Ordinance (Cap 609); and

(b) the terms of the agreement are regarded as including a provision that the matter is to be determined by a
single arbitrator or such number of arbitrators as the lessor and the lessee, or the vendor and the purchaser,
may agree.

(Added 16 of 2015 s. 15)

Section: 12 Motive power, etc. 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


Remarks:
For the saving and transitional provisions relating to the amendments made by the Resolution of the Legislative
Council (L.N. 130 of 2007), see paragraph (12) of that Resolution.





Cap 265 - Peak Tramway Ordinance 9

The tramcars, motive power, machinery, and apparatus of any kind whatsoever, used on or for the tramway shall be
subject to the approval of the Secretary, and no tramcar, motive power, machinery, or apparatus, which has been
disapproved by the Secretary shall be used on or for the tramway.
(Replaced 10 of 1926 s. 3. Amended 20 of 1948 s. 4; 26 of 1989 ss. 7, 9 & 10; L.N. 106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007; 16
of 2015 s. 16)

Section: 13 Construction of tramcars E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


Every tramcar used on the tramway shall be so constructed as to provide for the safety of passengers and for their safe
entrance to and exit from, and accommodation in such tramcar, and their protection from the machinery used for
drawing or propelling such tramcar.

(Amended 8 of 1912 s. 25; 20 of 1948 s. 4; 26 of 1989 s. 9)

Section: 14 Design and construction E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


The design and construction of the tramway shall be in accordance with any Code of Practice issued from time to time
under section 14A and shall have regard to the safety of all persons using, operating or being in the vicinity of the
tramway.

(Replaced 26 of 1989 s. 4)

Section: 14A Code of Practice in relation to design E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


The Director of Electrical and Mechanical Services may issue from time to time a Code of Practice dealing with the
design and construction of the tramway and notify the issue thereof in the Gazette.

(Added 26 of 1989 s. 4)

Section: 14B Appointment of inspectors 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


Remarks:
For the saving and transitional provisions relating to the amendments made by the Resolution of the Legislative
Council (L.N. 130 of 2007), see paragraph (12) of that Resolution.


(1) The Secretary may in writing appoint any person to be an inspector for the purposes of this section and section

14C. (Amended L.N. 106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007; 16 of 2015 s. 17)
(2) An inspector who is not a public officer may be paid, as a fee for his services, such amount as the Financial

Secretary thinks fit.
(3) The powers conferred by section 14C or by regulations made under section 15 shall be exercised by an inspector

only-
(a) for the purpose of testing and examining the tramway following the carrying out of work thereon; or
(b) for the purpose of ensuring the safety of the tramway or any part thereof; or
(c) where an inspector is directed to investigate an accident on any part of the tramway under such regulations,

for the purpose of carrying out such investigation.
(4) Where an inspector exercises any power under this Ordinance, he shall produce evidence of his identity, and of

his appointment, to any person who requests him to do so.
(5) An inspector may take with him such persons as he reasonably requires to assist him in the exercise of his

powers under this Ordinance.
(Added 26 of 1989 s. 4)


Section: 14C General powers of inspectors E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


(1) An inspector may at all reasonable times-
(a) enter upon premises to which this subsection applies;
(b) carry out on premises to which this subsection applies, or on any machinery, plant or equipment thereon,

such tests and inspections as he considers necessary in the exercise of his powers under section 14B(3);



Cap 265 - Peak Tramway Ordinance 10

(c) require any person to whom this subsection applies-
(i) to do anything which the inspector reasonably considers to be necessary for facilitating any test or

inspection carried out under section 14B(3) or paragraph (b) of this subsection;
(ii) to provide the inspector with such information relating to the tramway or any machinery, plant or

equipment connected with the tramway as the inspector may specify, and to answer any question or
produce for inspection any document which is necessary for that purpose;

(d) make copies of any document produced to him pursuant to paragraph (c)(ii).
(2) Subsection (1) applies to-

(a) the tramway premises and the premises of any contractor or subcontractor who is carrying out or has carried
out any work on the tramway; and

(b) any employee of the company, any contractor or subcontractor mentioned in paragraph (a) and any
employee of such a contractor or subcontractor.

(3) Any person who-
(a) without lawful excuse, fails to comply with a requirement made under subsection (1)(c);
(b) furnishes to an inspector acting under subsection (1)(c) information that is false or misleading in a material

particular;
(c) obstructs an inspector in the exercise of his powers under subsection (1),
commits an offence and is liable to a fine at level 2 and to imprisonment for 6 months.

(4) Where a person is charged with contravening any of the provisions of subsection (3), it shall not be a defence to
the charge that compliance with a requirement under subsection (1)(c) would tend to expose that person to any
other proceedings for a criminal offence; but nothing done in compliance with a requirement under subsection
(1)(c) shall be admissible in evidence in such other proceedings.

(Added 26 of 1989 s. 4. Amended E.R. 2 of 2014)

Section: 14D Secretary may order that defects be remedied* 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


Remarks:
For the saving and transitional provisions relating to the amendments made by the Resolution of the Legislative
Council (L.N. 130 of 2007), see paragraph (12) of that Resolution.


(1) Where in the opinion of the Secretary- (Amended L.N. 106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007; 16 of 2015 s. 18)

(a) the condition of any part of the tramway or of any machinery, plant or equipment of such part;
(b) the manner in which the tramway or any part thereof is being operated,
is such as to cause, or to be likely to cause, a risk of injury to any person, the Secretary may direct the company
to carry out such work, or to take such steps, as he may specify in the order to ensure that the condition of the
tramway, or of the part or the machinery, plant or equipment in question, or the manner of operation will cease
to constitute such a risk. (Amended L.N. 106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007; 16 of 2015 s. 18)

(2) A direction under subsection (1) shall be in writing and may specify the date before which the company shall
commence to carry out the specified work or take the specified steps and the date by which the same shall be
completed.

(3) If the company fails without reasonable excuse to comply with a direction under this section the company
commits an offence and is liable to a fine at level 6 and to a further fine of $10000 for each day during which the
failure to comply with the direction has continued.

(4) A copy of a document which purports to be a direction signed by the Secretary for the purposes of subsection
(1)- (Amended L.N. 106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007; 16 of 2015 s. 18)
(a) shall be admitted in evidence in proceedings for an offence under subsection (3) on its production without

further proof; and
(b) shall be sufficient evidence of the opinion of the Secretary. (Amended L.N. 106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007;

16 of 2015 s. 18)
(Added 26 of 1989 s. 4. Amended E.R. 2 of 2014)

_________________________________________________________________________________________
Note:
* (Amended L.N. 130 of 2007; 16 of 2015 s. 18)




Cap 265 - Peak Tramway Ordinance 11

Section: 14E Closure of tramway for safety reasons 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


Remarks:
For the saving and transitional provisions relating to the amendments made by the Resolution of the Legislative
Council (L.N. 130 of 2007), see paragraph (12) of that Resolution.


(1) The company shall close or partially close the tramway to the use of the public, if so required by notice in

writing by the Secretary whenever the Secretary is not satisfied that the tramway is in safe working order, and is
of opinion that any further operation of the tramway would be, or would likely to be, dangerous.

(2) If the Secretary is not satisfied that the tramway is in safe working order, and is of opinion that no immediate
danger will arise from further operation of the tramway, he may, by notice in writing, require the company to put
the tramway in safe working order to his satisfaction within a period specified in such notice.

(3) Upon expiration of the period specified under subsection (2), if the tramway has not been put in safe working
order to his satisfaction, the Secretary may, by notice in writing, direct the company to close or partially close
the tramway to the use of the public.

(4) Whenever the tramway is directed to be closed or partially closed under this section the tramway or such part
thereof thereby affected shall not thereafter be operated for the use of the public without the written consent of
the Secretary.

(Added 26 of 1989 s. 4. Amended L.N. 106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007; 16 of 2015 s. 19)

Section: 14F Closure of tramway for repairs or alterations 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


Remarks:
For the saving and transitional provisions relating to the amendments made by the Resolution of the Legislative
Council (L.N. 130 of 2007), see paragraph (12) of that Resolution.


(1) The company may close or partially close the tramway to the use of the public whenever necessary to enable any

repairs or alterations to be effected to the tramway.
(2) The company shall forthwith notify the Secretary of any closure or partial closure under subsection (1).

(Amended L.N. 106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007; 16 of 2015 s. 20)
(Added 26 of 1989 s. 4)


Section: 14G Offence of interfering with tramway etc. E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


(1) A person commits an offence if he wilfully-
(a) interferes with, removes, or alters any part of the tramway or of the works connected therewith; or
(b) places or throws any stones, dirt, wood, refuse, or other materials on any part of the tramway; or
(c) does or causes to be done anything in such manner as to obstruct any person using the tramway; or
(d) does or omits to do anything in relation to the tramway that endangers or is likely to endanger the safety of

any person travelling or being upon the tramway.
(2) Any person who commits an offence under subsection (1) is liable to a fine at level 2 and to imprisonment for 6

months.
(Added 26 of 1989 s. 4. Amended E.R. 2 of 2014)


Section: 14H Offence of negligence by employee E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


(1) An employee of the company commits an offence if, in connection with his employment, he negligently does or
omits to do anything in relation to the condition or operation of any part of the tramway that endangers or is
likely to endanger the safety of any person travelling or being upon the tramway.

(2) An employee who commits an offence under subsection (1) is liable to a fine at level 2 and to imprisonment for
6 months.

(3) For the purposes of subsection (1) negligence is the failure to exercise such care or skill as a reasonable
employee in the situation would exercise.

(Added 26 of 1989 s. 4. Amended E.R. 2 of 2014)



Cap 265 - Peak Tramway Ordinance 12


Section: 15 Regulations 16 of 2015 06/11/2015


Remarks:
For the saving and transitional provisions relating to the amendments made by the Resolution of the Legislative
Council (L.N. 130 of 2007), see paragraph (12) of that Resolution.


(1) The Chief Executive in Council may make regulations for all or any of the following matters- (Amended 62 of

1999 s. 3)
(a) controlling and regulating the maintenance and operation of the tramway and providing for safe systems of

operation;
(b) providing for the approval by the Secretary of the carrying out of work on the tramway; (Amended L.N.

106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007; 16 of 2015 s. 21)
(c) regulating the carrying out of any work on the tramway;
(d) providing for the inspection, examination and testing of the tramway and work being carried out thereon

including-
(i) the control by the Secretary, of the employment by the company of any person or class of person, in

connection with the carrying out of work on the tramway or, the maintenance and operation of the
tramway and the imposition of duties on the company and on any such person or class of person for the
purpose of such control; (Amended L.N. 106 of 2002; L.N. 130 of 2007; 16 of 2015 s. 21)

(ii) the keeping by the company of records and logs;
(iii) the supply by the company, of information relating to the tramway;
(iv) the display by the company, of notices relating to the tramway; and
(v) the reporting of accidents and investigations thereof;

(e) providing for the safety of persons using or being in the vicinity of, or employed in the operation and
maintenance of, the tramway; and

(f) providing for the better carrying into effect of this Ordinance.
(2) Regulations made under this section may provide that a contravention of any specified provisions shall be an

offence and may prescribe a penalty therefor not exceeding a fine at level 5 and imprisonment for 2 years, and in
the case of a continuing offence, a further fine of $1000 for each day on which the offence continues.

(Replaced 26 of 1989 s. 5. Amended E.R. 2 of 2014)

Section: 15A By-laws E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


(1) The company may, with the approval of the Legislative Council, make by-laws-
(a) regulating the conduct of persons travelling or being in or upon the tramway; and
(b) for the prevention of annoyance to persons travelling or being in or upon the tramway.

(2) The following provisions shall apply to by-laws made under subsection (1)-
(a) any by-law so made may provide that a contravention of specified provisions thereof shall be an offence

and may prescribe penalties therefor not exceeding a fine at level 2 and imprisonment for 6 months;
(b) prosecutions for offences under any by-law so made may be brought in the name of the company;
(c) the company shall cause to be printed copies of all by-laws so made which shall be kept at its principal

office and be available for sale to any person at a reasonable cost.
(Added 26 of 1989 s. 5. Amended E.R. 2 of 2014)


Section: 16 Power to sell undertaking E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


(1) Subject to the approval of the Chief Executive in Council the company may sell or assign its undertaking, or any
part thereof, to such person, by public auction or private contract, or partly by public auction and partly by
private contract, and with, under, and subject to such terms and conditions in all respects, as the company may
think fit, with power at any such sale to fix a reserve price for or buy in the same. (Amended 50 of 1911; 51 of
1911; 62 of 1911 Schedule; 63 of 1911 Schedule)

(2) When any such sale or assignment has been made, all the rights, powers, authorities, obligations, and liabilities
of the company in respect to the undertaking, or part thereof, sold or assigned, shall be transferred to , vested in,
and may be exercised by, and shall attach to, the person to whom the same has been sold or assigned, in like



Cap 265 - Peak Tramway Ordinance 13

manner as if the undertaking, or part thereof, sold or assigned, was constructed by such person under the powers
conferred by this Ordinance, and in reference to the same he shall be deemed to be the company. (Amended 50
of 1911; 51 of 1911; 62 of 1911 Schedule; 63 of 1911 Schedule)

(3) The company may, without the approval of the Chief Executive in Council, but subject to the provisions
contained in any contract or instrument it has entered into or executed, at any time sell or assign any land,
machinery, property, chattel or effect which in its opinion is not required for the efficient maintenance and
working of its undertaking. (Added 27 of 1992 s. 6)

(Amended 8 of 1912 s. 25; 20 of 1948 s. 4; 62 of 1999 s. 3)

Section: 17 Power to let undertaking E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


(1) Subject to the approval of the Chief Executive in Council, the company may demise its undertaking, or any part
thereof, to such person and for such term, and on such conditions, in all respects as the company may thinks fit,
to take effect either in possession or at some future date, and either with or without a premium as a consideration
for such demise. (Amended 50 of 1911; 62 of 1911 Schedule; 8 of 1912 s. 25; 20 of 1948 s. 4; 27 of 1992 s. 7)

(2) The company may, without the approval of the Chief Executive in Council, but subject to the provisions
contained in any contract or instrument it has entered into or executed, at any time demise or let any land,
machinery, property, chattel or effect which in its opinion is not required for the efficient maintenance and
working of its undertaking. (Added 27 of 1992 s. 7)

(Amended 62 of 1999 s. 3)

Section: 18 Power to mortgage undertaking E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


It shall be lawful for the company to borrow money on mortgage of all or any part of its undertaking, and for that
purpose to assign or demise by way of mortgage all or any portion of its lands, messuages, or tenements, erections,
buildings, works, rolling stock, plant, machinery, chattels, and effects to any person, and to enter into all such
covenants, provisos, declarations, and agreements, as the company may think fit.

(Amended 50 of 1911; 62 of 1911 Schedule; 8 of 1912 s. 25; 20 of 1948 s. 4)

Section: 19 Right of user by Government E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


The Chief Executive in Council may, by order, direct that precedence over the company and all other persons in the
user of the tramway be taken for defensive or military purposes or for the passage of troops and war material, on
giving to the company, on each occasion of such user, 3 clear days' notice, and shall direct the payment to the
company therefor of such fares as may be agreed on. If no agreement is come to, then the amount of such fares shall
be determined upon petition to the court in a summary way.

(Amended 50 of 1911; 51 of 1911; 62 of 1911 Schedule; 63 of 1911 Schedule; 8 of 1912 s. 25; 20 of 1948 s.
4; 57 of 1986 s. 6; 62 of 1999 s. 3)


Section: 20 (Repealed 26 of 1989 s. 11) 30/06/1997




Section: 21 (Repealed 57 of 1986 s. 7) 30/06/1997




Section: 21A (Repealed 57 of 1986 s. 7) 30/06/1997




Section: 22 Fares E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


(1) Subject to subsection (2), the company may charge such fares for the use of the tramway as it may fix from time
to time, which shall be paid to such persons, at such places, and in such manner as the company may, by notice
annexed to the list of fares exhibited under subsection (3), appoint.

(2) If any person applies for a monthly ticket for the use of the tramway, the company shall issue the monthly ticket



Cap 265 - Peak Tramway Ordinance 14

and the charge for the monthly ticket shall not exceed 25 times the standard fare for a full distance single
journey. (Replaced 26 of 1989 s. 6)

(3) A list, printed in the English and Chinese languages, of all the fares to be charged and the monthly ticket charge
shall be exhibited in a conspicuous place at the offices of the company and inside each tramcar used upon the
tramway.

(Replaced 57 of 1986 s. 8. Amended 26 of 1989 s. 9)

Section: 23 Limitation of obligation to carry passengers E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


If the tramcars during any journey contain their authorized complement of passengers, the company shall not be bound
to find accommodation for any other passenger, notwithstanding that he may have purchased a ticket entitling him to
travel on the tramway.

(Amended 50 of 1911; 51 of 1911; 62 of 1911 Schedule; 63 of 1911 Schedule; 8 of 1912 s. 25; 20 of
1948 s. 4; 26 of 1989 s. 10)


Section: 24 (Repealed 26 of 1989 s. 11) 30/06/1997




Section: 25 (Repealed 26 of 1989 s. 11) 30/06/1997




Section: 26 (Repealed 26 of 1989 s. 11) 30/06/1997




Section: 27 (Repealed 26 of 1989 s. 11) 30/06/1997




Section: 28 (Repealed 26 of 1989 s. 11) 30/06/1997




Section: 29 (Repealed 26 of 1989 s. 11) 30/06/1997




Section: 30 Service of summons, etc. E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


Any summons, writ, or other proceeding required to be served on the company may be served by the same being left
at, or sent by post directed to, the principal office of the company, or being given or sent by post directed to the
secretary, or, in case there is no secretary, the solicitor of the company.

(Amended 50 of 1911; 51 of 1911; 62 of 1911 Schedule; 63 of 1911 Schedule; 8 of 1912 s. 25; 20 of 1948
s. 4)


Section: 31 Form and delivery of notice E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


With respect to notices, and to the delivery thereof by or to the company, the following provisions shall have effect-
(a) every notice shall be in writing; and
(b) a notice to be delivered by or to the company to or by any other company or person may be delivered by

being left at the office of such other company or person, or at the then present or then last-known place of
abode or residence of such person, or of his ostensible agent, or of other the agent who pays the rents, rates,
and taxes payable in respect of the property of such person, or by being affixed on some conspicuous part of
any lands affected or intended to be affected by such notice, or by being left at the office of the company, as
the case may be, or by being sent by post in a registered letter addressed, as the case may be, to the clerk or
secretary of such other company at its principal office, or to such person at his then present or then last-
known place of abode or residence or at his office or business premises, or by being so sent by post
addressed to the ostensible agent or agents of such person, or other the agent or agents aforesaid, or to the



Cap 265 - Peak Tramway Ordinance 15

clerk or secretary of the company at its principal office.
(Amended 50 of 1911 s. 4; 62 of 1911 Schedule; 8 of 1912 s. 25; 20 of 1948 s. 4)


Section: 32 Tender of amends E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


(1) If any party has committed any irregularity, trespass or other wrongful proceeding in the execution of this
Ordinance or by virtue of any power or authority hereby given, and if, before action brought in respect thereof,
such party makes tender of sufficient amends to the party injured, such last-mentioned party shall not recover in
any such action.

(2) If no such tender has been made, it shall be lawful for the defendant, by leave of the court wherein such action is
pending, at any time before answer filed, to pay into court such sum of money as he may think fit, and thereupon
such proceedings shall be had as in other cases where defendants are allowed to pay money into court.
(Amended 51 of 1911; 63 of 1911 Schedule)

(Amended 8 of 1912 s. 25; 20 of 1948 s. 4)

Section: 33 Recovery of fares, etc. E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


Any fare, or penalty imposed by this Ordinance, the recovery of which is not otherwise provided for, may be
recovered before a magistrate.

(Amended 50 of 1911; 51 of 1911; 62 of 1911 Schedule; 63 of 1911 Schedule; 8 of 1912 s. 25; 20 of 1948 s.
4; 57 of 1986 s. 10)


Section: 34 Responsibility of company for damage E.R. 2 of 2014 10/04/2014


The company shall be answerable for all accidents, damages, and injuries happening through its act or default, or
through the act or default of any person in its employment, by reason or in consequence of any of its works or
tramcars, and shall save harmless all other companies or bodies, collectively and individually, their officers and
servants, from all damages and cost in respect of such accidents, damages, and injuries.

(Amended 8 of 1912 s. 25; 20 of 1948 s. 4; 26 of 1989 s. 10)

Section: 35 (Repealed 57 of 1986 s. 11) 30/06/1997




Section: 36 (Repealed 16 of 2015 s. 22) 16 of 2015 06/11/2015