Another outstanding design feature of the Murray Building, which is surrounded by major roads on all sides, is its vehicular entrance which is neatly knitted into the steep Cotton Tree Drive.

[2] In his policy address, Chief Executive Sir Donald Tsang said the government will retain ownership of the 27-story building, built in 1969, even after it is converted into a 300-room hotel.

But development officials on 2 March 2010 said the building, as well as its title-related rights, will be put up for tender next year, with the successful bidder given a 50-year ownership lease.

Central and Western District Council chairman Chan Tak-chor expressed outrage at the government's decision, taken without public consultation.

Deputy Secretary for Development Gracie Foo Siu-wai admitted the deal will be a "land sale," with the ownership of Murray Building and the site passing to the successful bidder for 50 years.