WEST COAST HIGHWAY AND PASIR PANJANG ROAD (Development plans)

Mr S. Iswaran asked the Minister for Communications what plans there are for the further development of West Coast Highway and Pasir Panjang Road, and when these are likely to be implemented.

Dr John Chen Seow Phun (for the Minister for Communications): Sir, the LTA will build an elevated semi-expressway along Pasir Panjang Road and West Coast Highway as part of an overall plan to increase the traffic capacity of the roads along the west coast of Singapore.

This elevated semi-expressway will be the westward extension of the Telok Blangah Semi-Expressway which stretches above Telok Blangah Road from Kampong Bahru Road to Alexandra Road.

Implementation of this road project will be staged. The stretches along Telok Blangah Road, Pasir Panjang Road and West Coast Highway are scheduled for completion in mid-2001, end-2001 and mid-2003 respectively.

Mr S. Iswaran (West Coast): Does the Minister envisage that this development will entail any acquisition of land from the private estates abutting these roads?

Dr John Chen Seow Phun: Sir, I do not have the details with me, but I would envisage that there may be some acquisition of land. As to what extent, I do not have the ready answer with me.

Mr Iswaran: Would the Ministry or LTA consider briefing the private estates' representatives on the plans and any imposition on their property?

Dr John Chen Seow Phun: Definitely.