RE-DEVELOPMENT PLANS

Mr S. Chandra Das asked the Minister for National Development whether the Government has finalised plans for the re-development of "Little India" in Serangoon Road area; and, if so, what are the details.

Mr Teh Cheang Wan: The area bounded by Belilios Road, Belilios Lane, Buffalo Road, Sungei Road, Perak Road and Cuff Road, as marked on the attached plan (Cols. 249 - 250), is generally known as "Little India". The Government's plan is to preserve as much as possible the Indian character of the area. plan - LITTLE INDIA (Cols. 249 - 250)

Within the area, HDB owns most of the buildings west of Serangoon Road. These buildings can be grouped into 3 parcels (Parcels A, B and C in the attached plan) (Annex A) (Cols. 249 - 250). There are very few Indian related trades in Parcel A, where resettlement action is being carried out. After clearance, the buildings will be renovated to house the traditional Indian trades now operating in Parcel B. Parcel B will then be renovated to house the traditional trades now operating in Parcel C. Parcel C will in turn be redeveloped for commercial uses. Renovation of Parcel A should be completed by mid 1987 and Parcel B by end 1988. No date has been fixed for the redevelopment of Parcel C. Annex A - LITTLE INDIA (Cols. 249 - 250)

The buildings east of Serangoon Road are mainly in private ownership. The intention is to allow the private owners to redevelop while at the same time preserving the present day characteristics. URA is working on the redevelopment guidelines and a comprehensive plan for the area is expected to be ready before the end of the year.