CYCLING AT HDB VOID DECKS

CYCLING AT HDB VOID DECKS

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(Enhancement of safety): **

50.

Er Lee Bee Wah asked the Minister for National Development in view of HDB void decks being commonly used by residents for leisurely activities (a) what action will the Ministry take to ensure that cyclists do not pose a danger to these residents; (b) what can be done to deter cyclists from parking their bicycles in ways that are hazardous and a hindrance to the residents or cause damage to public property; and (c) whether the Ministry will consider imposing a ban on cycling at all HDB void decks.

Mr Mah Bow Tan: Void decks form part of the common property managed and maintained by Town Councils (TCs). In managing the use of the void decks, TCs need to ensure that the safety of residents is not compromised.

Currently, the respective TCs have their own by-laws to manage and control the use of common property in their Towns. Such by-laws normally include provisions against the unlawful parking of vehicles, including the parking and riding of bicycles at their void decks. Any person who commits a breach of the by-law is liable of a maximum fine of $5,000. Hence, depending on the situation and needs of the residents, TCs have the recourse to take enforcement action against errant bicycle owners and riders, if necessary.

At the same time, TCs should also educate residents on the proper use of HDB void decks so that they do not pose a danger or inconvenience to other residents. They can work with grassroots leaders to raise awareness of the dangers of indiscriminate cycling at the void deck. In addition, TCs can put up signages at void decks to deter unlawful parking and riding of bicycles.