The Hong Kong government has reduced the cost of public broadcaster RTHK’s proposed new premises by about US$93 million (HK$724 million).

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Gregory So said the new Broadcasting House will still allow the organisation to add new services after a long process of review and consultation.

He said the government has tried its best to reduce the cost after the original tender result which costed the new premises at HK$6.1 billion was voted down by lawmakers on January 3.

The plans were heavily criticised as too expensive in the local media and by politicians.

The proposed savings represent about 12 percent of the whole construction price, which So described as “quite significant”.

“On this basis, my colleagues from RTHK as well as the Architectural Services Department and our bureau have commenced a new effort to lobby for support of LegCo Members,” he added.