FUNERAL PARLOURS IN HDB ESTATES (Policy)

Dr Wang Kai Yuen asked the Minister for National Development (a) what is the current policy of having funeral parlours sited within Housing and Development Board housing estates; and (b) whether the plan to build one at Clementi Avenue 6 has been cancelled.

Mr Teh Cheang Wan: Sir, the proposal to build funeral parlours in HDB estates is still being studied by the HDB. The HDB will take into account the sensitivities of residents to this new concept when finalizing the policy. Unlike traditional funeral parlours in Chinatown, funeral parlours in HDB estates, if built, will be self-contained, air-conditioned buildings sited away from apartment blocks.

The view of the funeral parlours from apartment blocks will also be adequately screened. Funeral rites will be totally confined within the building to prevent disturbance to the neighbourhood.

The plan to build a funeral parlour at Clementi Avenue 6 has been deferred pending a policy decision on the matter.