Green Corridor Along Former KTM Railway Land

Mr Christopher de Souza asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the green corridor which sits along the returned railway land can be preserved to retain its historical richness and provide a valuable reminder to Singaporeans of our links to the past; and (b) how will the green belt which runs along the foot of Bukit Timah Hill (from Bukit Timah Station to Rail Mall) be preserved as part of the larger Bukit Timah Hill Reserve.

Mr Khaw Boon Wan: The Government recognises the importance of preserving the environmental and historical richness of the narrow strip of land which once held the Malayan Railway track. This can be achieved even as we seek to develop the returned railway land.

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First, we have gazetted the Tanjong Pagar Railway Station as a national monument and the Bukit Timah Railway Station for conservation. This recognises their historical significance.

Second, we have retained the two iconic steel bridges across Dunearn Road and at Rail Mall.

Third, we are studying how to maintain a continuous green "spine" along this Rail Corridor and achieve our development needs at the same time. The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) is seeking public views for ideas. Since July, we have received more than 500 suggestions. And in November, the URA launched an Ideas Competition entitled "Journey of Possibilities" to draw innovative and fresh new ideas from the public in addressing some of the key challenges and issues in planning for the future use of the Rail Corridor. These efforts will help us crystallise the concept and development plans for the Rail Corridor. When ready, we will exhibit the draft plans and further invite the public to give their views on these plans.

As for the stretch of land next to the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, it is currently zoned part "Residential" and part "Reserve". The latter means that its use has yet to be determined. We will ensure that any development carried out there will preserve the connectivity of the corridor and its greenery and biodiversity. We would like to tap the best creative ideas for the development of the Rail Corridor. The URA will continue to engage the public as well as the design professionals to shape a shared vision for the Rail Corridor.