HDB REBUILDING PROGRAMMES (Particulars)

Dr S. Vasoo asked the Minister for National Development (a) if he will give an idea as to the types of housing that are likely to be built in housing estates affected by relocation; and (b) when the rebuilding programmes will be implemented.

The Minister of State for National Development (Dr Lee Boon Yang) (for the Minister for National Development): Mr Speaker, Sir, the mix and type of flats that the HDB will build on the vacated sites will depend on the location of the sites. In the city area, the emphasis will be on better quality flats. Going by current demand, it is likely to be a mix of 4-room, 5-room and larger flats. Redevelopment will inject new life into the old estates and improve the living environment.

The redevelopment programme is targetted to be implemented in 1989. Building contracts will be called in some of the older estates where rental blocks have been cleared and sites are ready. The actual schedule will depend on how soon the affected tenants can be relocated. The HDB will release more details of this programme as soon as it is ready.

Dr S. Vasoo (Bo Wen): Sir, could the Minister of State look into future relocation programmes that could be gradually phased so that disruptions to neighbourhood life could be minimized?

Dr Lee Boon Yang: Mr Speaker, Sir, certainly HDB will take note of the Member's comment and I will ask them to make sure that future relocation programmes are phased in such a way that there will be minimal disruption. But I cannot promise the hon. Member that there will be no disruption at all.