Installation of Stair Lifts or Escalators or Redevelopment for HDB Blocks without Direct Lift Access

Mr Leong Mun Wai asked the Minister for National Development whether HDB has considered (i) installing stair lifts or escalators or (ii) redevelopment, for HDB blocks that still lack direct lift access and, if not, why not.

HDB blocks built since the mid-1990s have direct lift access on every floor. Amongst those blocks built before then, most do not have direct lift access on every floor. To address this, HDB launched the Lift Upgrading Programme (LUP) in 2001. Since then, HDB has implemented the LUP in more than 5,000 blocks.

In implementing the LUP, HDB has piloted and adopted different design approaches and innovative solutions to bring direct lift access to more blocks. Some examples include machine room-less lifts, home lifts and bubble lifts.

As mentioned in previous replies to the House, HDB has also studied installing wheelchair stair lifts and assessed that this is not feasible for large-scale adoption. This is because staircases within HDB blocks need to be kept clear for fire escape and retrofitting a stair lift will encroach into and impede the evacuation route in the event of a fire. Moreover, such stair lifts may potentially cause injury if not operated properly. Escalators are not feasible due to technical and space constraints.

Currently, around 99% of all blocks have direct lift access on every floor. However, there are some blocks where the LUP is currently not feasible because of very high cost or technical constraints. HDB has no plans to redevelop these blocks. That notwithstanding, we recognise that there could be some households in these blocks who may urgently need direct lift access due to their family members' medical or mobility conditions. For such households, HDB provides a Lift access Housing Grant (LHG) of up to $30,000 to assist them in buying a flat with direct lift access. Households with such needs can approach HDB for advice on how they can apply for the LHG.