Developments Ceased due to Findings from Environmental Impact Assessments and Built Heritage Evaluations

Mr Leon Perera asked the Minister for National Development over the past 10 years, what is the number of developments that have been stopped as a result of findings from (i) environmental impact assessments and (ii) built heritage evaluations by URA.

Despite being a land-scarce city-state, about 3,300 hectares of our land are designated as Nature Reserves, while more than 7,000 buildings have been conserved. Where possible, we seek to retain our natural capital and built heritage in a manner that allows them to continue playing a role in meeting Singaporeans’ needs. For example, the transformation of the concrete canal at Bishan-Ang Mo Kio park to a naturalised river, where wildlife such as otters, heron and egrets can now be found, is an example of how deliberate planning can enable ecological enhancement and restoration. Similarly, the Fullerton Hotel and Capitol Singapore exemplify how conservation can bring about a new lease of life for historic buildings.

All development proposals are subject to a robust planning evaluation process that considers each development’s impact, for example on traffic, public health, environment, and heritage, amongst others. If the proposed development is in or near areas of significant ecological or heritage value, studies will be conducted to analyse the relative significance of the site, and possible measures or alternative methods to adopt, to mitigate any potential impact as much as possible. This allows us to weigh the trade-offs and to adjust plans as required, to sensitively integrate any new development with its surroundings. For example, after conducting an EIA and engaging nature groups, HDB redesigned the parcellation plan of its Bukit Batok Hillside Park project to preserve the catchment area surrounding a stream.

We regularly review our plans to identify new sites of ecological and heritage significance to be safeguarded, taking into consideration our competing land-use demands. For example, Mandai Mangrove and Mudflat, which was initially planned for factory use, is now a Nature Park, in recognition of its ecological value. For Dakota Crescent, after consulting heritage groups and carefully considering the trade-offs, we kept what was most significant about the site – a cluster of six blocks around a central courtyard and playground – while allowing the rest to be redeveloped to meet housing needs.

As needs and aspirations change over time, we will continually review our plans, consult, and gather views from different segments of society, to find the appropriate balance between conservation and development, while maintaining flexibility and agility in our land-use policies and processes. This will allow us to provide a liveable and sustainable home for current and future generations of Singaporeans.