Friday, October 12, 2007

HDB's Remaking Our Heartland Initiatives Get Good Response From S'poreans

Source : Channel NewsAsia, 12 October 2007

Plans to rejuvenate public housing in Singapore have been welcomed by many residents, after they learned more about the different initiatives at HDB's Remaking Our Heartland Exhibitions.

Artist impression of a park in revamped Dawson estate

The roving exhibitions, which ended last Wednesday and featured Punggol, Yishun and Dawson estates, attracted about 110,000 visitors, 10 percent of whom took part in a survey on HDB's plans to enhance the living environment.

HDB said over 80 percent of the respondents were excited about the future of public housing showcased in the exhibition.

There was strong support for the proposals to turn Punggol into a waterfront town with lush greenery, waterways and more entertainment options.

A majority (81 percent) also said they were prepared to pay higher monthly service and conservancy charges to enjoy the new features.

About half (46 percent) were willing to pay S$10 or more a month.

Many residents were also in favour of plans to regenerate old estates with sky gardens and parks.

Artist impression of Punggol 21+ town centre

And 90 percent said they were willing to help maintain the greens.

When it comes to HDB's estate upgrading programmes, over 60 percent of the respondents are happy that residents will have a greater say in what is to be built in their neighbourhood.

Three-quarters of those surveyed also said they would take part in discussions at Town Hall meetings and Block parties. - CNA/ms

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