Sale of Bishan Site to Lions Home for the Elders

Mrs Lina Chiam asked the Minister for Health (a) whether the plot of land surrounded by Blocks 175, 181, 182 and 186 at Bishan Street 13 has already been sold to the Lions Home for the Elders; and (b) if so, (i) when was it sold; (ii) what was the selling price; and (iii) whether the residents of the relevant blocks of flats were consulted in relation to the sale of the land.

Mr Gan Kim Yong: The issue of land sale does not arise in this case. If confirmed to be the site of a nursing home, the plot of land surrounded by Blocks 175, 181, 182 and 186 at Bishan Street 13 and the building for the development will be owned by the Government and leased to Lions Home for the Elders (LHFTE), which is a voluntary welfare organisation. LHFTE will pay rental for the use of the land and building.

The proposed new Lions Home for the Elders in Bishan is part of the Government's national plan to enhance aged care to meet the demands of an ageing population. The 0.3 hectare site at Bishan Street 13 has been identified for the proposed development as it is appropriately sized for a nursing home, and is accessible by public transport. A nursing home will also not generate high traffic.

MOH had earlier engaged the residents on the proposed nursing home development. In addition to explaining the development via a detailed letter on the project, we had also consulted the Advisor and the grassroots leaders and, together with them, held a dialogue with Bishan residents. We have received feedback and suggestions on the site, and some residents living near the development have shared their concerns with us. We are currently studying their feedback.

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