UPDATED PLANS FOR

Mr S. Vasoo asked the Minister for National Development if he will give an update on the plans to preserve and develop "Little India".

Mr Teh Cheang Wan: The buildings west of Serangoon Road bounded by Buffalo Road, Serangoon Road, Belilios Lane and Belilios Road are owned by Housing and Development Board (HDB). These buildings have been grouped into three parcels A, B, and C as shown in the attached plan (Hansard, 23rd July, 1985 (Cols. 249-250)). Parcel A, which has very few Indian related trades, has been cleared. Tenders for the renovation of parcel A are expected to be called in May 1986. Work is expected to be completed by third quarter 1987.

The traditional Indian trades now operating in parcel B will be resettled in the renovated buildings in parcel A. Parcel B will be renovated by 1988 to resettle the traditional trades now operating in parcel C. No date has been fixed for the redevelopment of parcel C.

The buildings east of Serangoon Road are mainly in private ownership. The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has completed a building use plan for the area in order to preserve the Indian character. The first storey premises will be allowed for retail uses although these buildings are within the residential zone in the Master Plan. The upper floors will be retained for residential uses.