The demolition of Central Star Ferry pier was conceived in the Central Reclamation Phase III (CRIII), before being introduced to the public in May 1998 through a two-month exhibition of a draft outline zoning plan.

The scheme was later referred to as the "Minimum Reclamation Option", following public opposition and was accepted by the Town Planning Board (TPB) and the LegCo in mid-1999.

The draft was accepted by the former Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa in the LegCo in February 2002. The Finance Committee then approved funding for CRIII. The works contract began in the same month.

In February 2003, the Society for Protection of the Harbour Limited (SPH) applied for a judicial review of TPB's decision on the draft of CRIII. The case was resolved at the High Court, which ruled in favour of the government in October 2003.

Local concern groups urged the government to adopt alternative approach to the reclamation and preservation of the Central Star Ferry pier early 2004.

Various organizations in the community also demanded direct consultation with the public in open forums in 2004 and 2005. Earlier in 2006, the Hong Kong Institute of Architects also questioned the government's decision over the landmark.