Written answer by Ministry of National Development on design or infrastructure considerations to enhance noise abatement for new housing estates near air bases

Nov 7, 2022

Mr Shawn Huang Wei Zhong: To ask the Minister for National Development with numerous new housing developments near air bases (a) whether there are any additional design or infrastructure considerations to enhance noise abatement capabilities of the new homes; and (b) if so, what is the desired noise abatement target for these new homes.

Answer:

To mitigate the impact of noise from nearby airbases, developers are encouraged to orientate their buildings away from noise sources wherever possible. 

2        In addition, to mitigate the impact of aircraft noise, HDB is testing practical noise mitigation measures, such as thickening the window glass panels to achieve better sound insulation when windows are closed by residents. HDB is also testing other measures such as innovative façade designs with overhangs or canopies to deflect and abate noise transmission into the dwelling units, and windows integrated with noise-cancelling technologies.

3        In land-scarce Singapore, we have to constantly balance demands and trade-offs across a wide variety of needs, including housing, green spaces, infrastructure, community facilities, workplaces, amongst others. While some noise reduction can be achieved through mitigation measures, it may not always be possible to reduce noise completely. MND will continue to explore other viable and sustainable means to mitigate the impact of aircraft noise on our housing estates.