Procedures for Maintenance Works In and Around Nature Reserves, and Penalties for Unauthorised Clearance of Green Spaces

Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Minister for National Development (a) how frequently are green spaces near construction sites monitored to prevent unauthorised clearance; (b) what penalties are imposed on errant contractors and whether these are sufficient to deter similar future incidents; and (c) how does the Ministry ensure that adequate staging and storage areas are allocated to prevent encroachment into nature reserves.

The National Parks Board (NParks) stewards the trees and planting sites established under the OneMillionTrees (OMT) movement and Forest Restoration Action Plan (FRAP). NParks maintains records of the planting sites under both programmes, with post-planting maintenance regimes in place to support tree establishment and survival.

Trees planted on NParks-managed green spaces, including planting sites under OMT and FRAP, are protected under the Parks and Trees Act. Under the Act, any works affecting trees and vegetation in national parks, nature reserves, public parks, as well as mature trees in tree conservation areas and on vacant lands, must first be approved by NParks. Contractors must obtain NParks' approval before proceeding with site works and must comply with NParks' stipulated conditions, such as to minimise ecological impact.

NParks conducts inspections on work sites in NParks-managed green spaces to ensure contractors comply with NParks' protocols and that the works remain within designated areas. Unauthorised clearance of land in NParks-managed green spaces without the approval of the Commissioner of Parks and Recreation constitutes an offence under the Parks and Trees Act. For example, convicted parties may be fined up to $50,000, face imprisonment of up to six months, or both, for unauthorised clearance of greenery within nature reserves.

NParks regularly reviews its processes to ensure they are relevant and robust in safeguarding our green spaces.