Oral Answer by Ministry of National Development on Neighbourhood Renewal Programme

Oct 3, 2017

Mr Png Eng Huat: To ask the Minister for National Development 

a) what is the rationale for requiring 75% support level from eligible households for the Neighbourhood Renewal Programme (NRP) where residents do not need to co-pay; and

b) whether the Ministry will consider setting a timeline for the calling of a tender for NRP works when the NRP for the precinct is announced.

Answer:

The Neighbourhood Renewal Programme (NRP) emphasizes the active engagement of residents in shaping their living environment. The requirement to have at least 75% support from residents before NRP proceeds provides certainty that the proposed improvements meet the needs of the majority of residents. It also promotes a sense of ownership for the proposed improvements and enhances residents’ sense of belonging to their neighbourhood.

The recommended timeline for calling of tender for NRP works is within 12 months from announcement. This has been communicated to all Town Councils which carry out NRP.
 
In practice, however, the time taken varies from one project to another, and may not fall within the recommended timeline. Factors that could affect the calling of tender include the size and complexity of the project, consultation processes adopted by Town Councils, and extent of feedback and suggestions received from residents. As far as possible, Town Councils should expedite the NRP process where possible.