Licensed billiard establishments that meet specific criteria can apply to let people as young as eight years old enter these premises, as a means of promoting the sport's development in Hong Kong, said the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD).

Currently, only those aged 16 or above are allowed entry.

Other relaxations include allowing young patrons to stay until 11pm, compared with 8pm right now, and they could enter as early as 7am.

Those in school uniforms will also be permitted to enter.

The department said licensed billiard establishments hoping to accept younger patrons can make applications from February 25.

Vincent Law, chairman of the Billiard Sports Council of Hong Kong China (HKBSCC), said he hopes the department can clearly lay out the specific requirements that billiard halls need to take.

"The details of the requirements are yet to be announced, but according to my understanding, you have to have certain security facilities implemented in the premises, for example, maybe CCTV. Also you need certain tools and facilities which are suitable for use by children," he said.

"During some sessions, such as training sessions and tournaments, there needs to be some coach who is qualified to coach billiard sports."

Law also said that he hopes to see all restrictions removed in the long run.

"It is only a first step because I think the ultimate objective is to completely remove all restrictions on billiard establishments because we are just like any other sports venue," he said.

"Why should there be a restriction on the age of the person who uses the facilities?"

He added he hopes to see the LCSD promote the scheme to the around 50 currently licensed billiard halls, noting that establishment owners will have to assess the administrative work and costs before considering to apply.