Oral answer by Ministry of National Development on the environmental impact of the redevelopment of Paya Lebar airbase and mitigation measures

Aug 3, 2023

Questions No: 4866 and 4972

Questions by: Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong

*4866. Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong: To ask the Minister for National Development (a) what studies have been undertaken on the environmental impact of the relocation and redevelopment of Paya Lebar airbase; (b) what are the findings from these studies; (c) what measures have been or will be taken to mitigate any negative environmental impact; and (d) if studies have not been undertaken, whether the Ministry will conduct these studies and, if not, why not.

*4972. Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong: To ask the Minister for National Development in view of the impending redevelopment of the Paya Lebar Airbase (a) whether there are plans to retain sufficient green spaces in the north-eastern part of Singapore, including to allow continued connectivity for migratory birds to fly between the Northern Islands and other parts of Singapore; and (b) will the Government consider preserving or enhancing the current tracts of green spaces along Sungei Serangoon from Tampines Road to Serangoon Dam.

Answer:

          Mr Speaker, this reply also addresses PQ4972 filed by Mr Dennis Tan.

2.       The redevelopment of Paya Lebar Airbase will only commence from the 2030s. Prior to that, we will evaluate the potential impact on the environment and biodiversity in the area, and conduct more detailed environmental studies if the impact is assessed to be significant. These studies will also inform mitigation measures for the redevelopment, including the integration of green spaces in and around Paya Lebar Airbase.

3.       For Sungei Serangoon, a network of parks and park connectors has been safeguarded to enhance green spaces for biodiversity, as well as provide recreational spaces for the community.