CENTRAL EXPRESSWAY (Northward extension)

Mr Heng Chiang Meng asked the Minister for National Development when the northward extension of the Central Expressway to Yio Chu Kang Road will be ready.

Dr Lee Boon Yang: Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, the Central Expressway from Ang Mo Kio Avenue 5 to Yio Chu Kang was to have been completed by March 1988. However, due to several site encumbrances requiring clearance and resettlement, completion is now delayed to the end of the year.

Mr Heng Chiang Meng: Sir, may I ask whether it is true that one of the key obstacles is the edible oil refinery factory right in the path of the expressway?

Dr Lee Boon Yang: Sir, there are several obstacles towards the early completion of this section of the Central Expressway. There are indeed some commercial operators who are located right on the site of the Central Expressway and clearance is still pending.

Mr Heng Chiang Meng: I am afraid the Minister of State has not really answered my question. But if it is true, may I suggest that slip roads be built around this factory so that the residents in the area can have a direct access to the expressway.

Dr Lee Boon Yang: Indeed, Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, PWD is examining the various possibilities. There are also trying to expedite the clearance and consider alternatives such as the one suggested by the Member of Jalan Kayu.