Written Answer by Ministry of National Development on ratio of total number of dwelling units to pavilions and total number of void decks to blocks in current and new HDB developments

Oct 14, 2020

Dr Tan Wu Meng: To ask the Minister for National Development (a) what is the ratio of the current number of HDB blocks designed with void decks usable for common spaces, as compared respectively to (i) total blocks and (ii) total dwelling units in new HDB developments; (b) what is the ratio of pavilions to (i) total blocks and (ii) total dwelling units in new HDB developments; and (c) how these compare with traditional precinct designs.

Answer:

In the design of HDB towns and estates, HDB actively plans for common spaces where the community can gather. The approach has evolved over the years, along with the changes in design of HDB blocks and precincts. Compared with older slab blocks with many units per floor, newer blocks are generally taller and more compact, with fewer units per floor. These changes optimise land use and provide residents with greater privacy and better views, but the trade-off is smaller void deck space under each block.

With this shift in block design, HDB has been providing a variety of purpose-built facilities and amenities in newer precincts to serve as common spaces, and create opportunities for community interaction and bonding. For example, since the 1990s, precinct pavilions have been built in new developments to provide space for community functions, such as weddings and funeral wakes. HDB regularly reviews its planning norms to ensure that the number of precinct pavilions are adequate to meet the needs of residents. 

The roofs of all newer Multi-Storey Car Parks are also landscaped for community use. For some very tall HDB blocks, HDB has introduced high-rise gardens and decks, to serve as spaces for residents to meet and interact. Precinct spaces are also carefully designed to facilitate community interaction, such as through the provision of 3-Gen playgrounds and fitness corners that cater to residents of different age groups. 

In addition, HDB also maximises the smaller void deck space available in newer developments. In 2014, HDB introduced Community Living Rooms at the void deck of every block. These are located near lift lobbies and letter boxes, and furnished with seats and tables to provide cosy gathering spaces for residents. Where possible, in designing new HDB blocks, HDB also pushes the supporting columns to the edges of the blocks, so as to create more unobstructed void deck space. 

Lastly, in older HDB estates, Social Communal Facilities such as childcare centres or elder-care centres are usually built in void decks. To free up the smaller void deck spaces in newer developments, HDB may integrate larger Social Communal Facilities in multi-storey carparks or in standalone community facilities buildings.

In general, surveys of HDB residents have shown that community spaces provided in precincts are sufficient, and that residents are satisfied with the facilities. Nonetheless, HDB will continue to review norms to ensure they are sufficient and support a variety of community events, in accordance with the changing demographics and needs of HDB residents.