Channel NewsAsia 16 Sep 08;
SINGAPORE: The Government will review the scope and implementation of yet-to-be launched projects under the Active, Beautiful and Clean (ABC) Waters programme in view of escalating construction costs.
The ABC Waters programme aims to transform drains, canals and reservoirs into recreational water bodies.
Six more projects are in the pipeline with tenders to be called by the end of this financial year.
These projects are at Pandan Reservoir, Jurong Lake, Alexandra Canal, Sungei Whampoa at St George's Lane, Sungei Serangoon at Lorong Halus and Sungei Kallang at Bishan Park.
Minister for the Environment and Water Resources Yaacob Ibrahim said two recently launched projects at Sungei Punggol and Lower Seletar have seen construction costs going up by between 15 and 20 per cent on average, based on tender returns.
Giving an update on the programme in response to a Parliamentary question from Sembawang GRC MP Lim Wee Kiak, Mr Yaacob said the government is mitigating the increasing construction costs in various ways.
For example, the PUB is exploring the use of innovative products and new technology to reduce construction and maintenance costs. The agency will explore the use of concrete recycled from redevelopment works for the Bishan Park project.
At the detailed planning stage, PUB and its consultants will review the scope and design of each project to optimise spending while meeting the community's needs.- CNA/yb
