Debated in Parliament on 23 Sep 2025.
Ms Hany Soh asked the Minister for National Development with regard to the planned Woodlands forest clearance to commence in 2026, how will the Ministry mitigate and minimise adverse impacts to the flora and fauna there, especially to the critically and endangered species.
My response will also cover related issues raised by Ms Poh Li San, scheduled for a subsequent Sitting.
Given Singapore's tight land constraints, some vegetated sites will have to be developed to meet our land use needs that help create jobs and build new homes for Singaporeans. Such developments will be carried out sensitively, with measures in place to mitigate potential environmental impact.
The JTC Corporation (JTC) hence commissioned an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) to assess and recommend measures to mitigate potential environmental impact arising from the Woodlands Gateway development. The EIA report was reviewed in consultation with nature groups and published online in August 2025 for public feedback.
The EIA report recommended measures to mitigate the impact of the development on flora and fauna. These include transplanting plant species of conservation significance and implementing a Wildlife Management Plan. JTC will also integrate greenery into the development, where feasible.
PAPERCUTS