VACANT GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS

Dr Kanwaljit Soin asked the Minister for Law (a) how many Government buildings have been vacant for one or more years; (b) why they have not been leased; and (c) what is the market value of these properties.

Prof. S. Jayakumar: (a) A total of 156 Government buildings under the management of the Land Office have been vacant for more than one year. Most of these buildings are in former army camps which have been vacated by MINDEF as they have become obsolete or are affected by re-development.

(b) Most of the vacant buildings have not been leased as they are affected by re-development in the near future. With only a short or uncertain tenure available for use, it is often not practical or viable to lease such buildings out as they usually require substantial refurbishment before they can be re-used. These buildings will usually be demolished when development plans are finalised and re-development of the site commences.

Where vacant buildings are capable of re-use, the Land Office will liaise with the various ministries to see if they require the building for their use or for the use of any of the private welfare, educational, cultural or social organisations under their charge. If so, and the proposal to use the building is suitable, the Land Office will allocate the building to the ministry or organisation concerned. In cases where there are no suitable applications, the Land Office will tender the buildings out for short term rental.

(c) The market value of Government buildings is determined by the Chief Valuer based on the usage approved by the Chief Planner and varies significantly depending on the location and condition of the buildings. It is difficult to determine the market value of the vacant buildings as the possibility and nature of usage of the buildings in most cases has not yet been determined. In any case, buildings which are affected by re-development and therefore cannot be used have no market value.