Motor Repair Shops at Petrol Stations within Housing Estates

Mr Zainal Sapari asked the Minister for National Development (a) what are the measures or guidelines imposed on operators of petrol stations to reduce potential noise pollution from the motor repair workshops located within their premises; and (b) whether the Ministry will consider banning motor repair workshops from being located at petrol stations that are sited within housing estates.

Mr Khaw Boon Wan: The National Environment Agency (NEA) imposes the guidelines for motor repair workshops that are located within petrol stations. These requirements are site-specific. For instance, engine overhauls and performance tests which generate excessive smoke and noise are disallowed if the petrol station is near residences. Only the minor motor repairing and servicing activities are permitted to provide convenient services to residents.

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In addition, when planning new housing estates, HDB specifically sites the residential blocks to be at least 25 metres away from the boundary of any petrol station. Where possible, non-residential facilities, such as electrical substations or multi-storey car parks, are located in between to provide a buffer.