Lynda Hong Channel NewsAsia 9 Apr 12;
SINGAPORE: Singapore will continue to augment its land capacity through reclamation, building higher, and going underground.
Still, land allocations for industrial, commercial and residential use will likely remain the same over the next decade.
Currently, one third is used for industry, commerce and housing.
The remaining two thirds are used for roads, sea port, airport, reservoirs, utilities, military training grounds as well as social and community facilities like parks, hospitals and schools.
The National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan gave the projections in a written reply to Marine Parade GRC MP Associate Professor Fatimah Lateef, who asked how land utilisation will be like, and whether a land shortage is likely over the next decade.
With Singapore land limited at 710 square kilometres, Mr Khaw said his ministry will also pursue efforts to recycle and optimise land to make the best use of this limited resource.
Undeveloped lands at Tengah and Bidadari will be opened up for residential needs while the use of existing land within mature house and industrial estates will be intensified.
But Mr Khaw gave the assurance that Singapore will remain highly liveable and a great place to raise families.
Upcoming discussions on the National White Paper will help sharpen the focus on future infrastructure planning and its execution.
- CNA/ck
