Written answer by Ministry of National Development on status of investigation into cause of landslide at Clementi Northarc BTO flat construction site

Nov 28, 2022

Mr Saktiandi Supaat: To ask the Minister for National Development

(a) what is the status of the investigation into the cause of the 2 September 2022 landslide at the construction site of Clementi NorthArc Build-To-Order flats;
(b) whether any legal proceedings have been instituted against any of the contractors or subcontractors for the construction;
(c) whether slope inspections have been stepped up at park connectors adjacent to large drains, canals or rivers; and
(d) if so, by how much.

Answer:

          On 2 September 2022, a landslide occurred at the Clementi NorthArc Build-To-Order construction site. This was caused by slope failure, which refers to the sudden collapse of a slope due to changes in soil strength or the destabilisation of the slope. After the incident, BCA had inspected the surrounding buildings and found them to be structurally sound.

2.       BCA is currently investigating the cause of the incident and whether there have been any contraventions of the Building Control Act and Regulations. BCA will consider the appropriate enforcement action after the investigations have been completed.

3.       Agencies that manage public land carry out regular inspections on slopes that may pose a risk to public safety, and implement appropriate mitigation measures to stabilise the slopes as needed. This includes slopes that are near park connectors adjacent to large drains, canals or rivers. Our agencies may also step up inspection frequency during periods of intense wet weather.

Issued by:    Ministry of National Development

Date         :   28 Nov 2022