S'pore to stay green as it grows

By Lydia Lim

EVEN if Singapore's population swells to 5.5 million, there will be plenty of green spaces for rest and recreation.

More land will be set aside for open spaces - 2,000 ha more to be precise, or the equivalent of 34 Bishan Parks.

For those who like to be on terra firma when they exercise, there will be a new haunt to check out. There are plans to open up the southern part of the central catchment area for activities such as cycling and hiking.

Those who prefer water sports will be able to canoe, row or sail in the Bedok, Pandan, MacRitchie and Lower Seletar reservoirs in future.

As for golf courses, a big talking point in recent months, no more private courses are planned. This is the Urban Redevelopment Authority's (URA) stand in the draft version of the 2001 Concept Plan.

It takes into account the recommendation that the number of courses be capped at the present 22, which was made by both the focus groups set up to gather feedback on long-term land use in Singapore.

The last Concept Plan, which was drawn up in 1991, had provided for 29 golf courses on the island.

But public courses may still get the go-ahead, if there is demand, said the URA. Whether reclaimed land will be used for golf courses or public parks will depend on 'the demand for such uses at a given point in time', it said.

Also in line with public feedback is the new focus on identity.

People want to conserve as many distinctive parts of Singapore as possible, whether these are old buildings, unique neighbourhoods or natural features such as mangrove swamps.

The Government is studying the proposal for an independent Heritage Conservation Trust, which would help it make decisions on conservation matters.

CONCEPT PLAN: Check it out

THE draft Concept Plan 2001 exhibition will be open until May 11. It is free. Time: Monday to Friday 9 am-7 pm Saturday 9 am - 5 pm Place: Ground floor atrium, URA Centre, 45 Maxwell Road

On May 11, the last day, there will be a public dialogue on the concept plan.

If you want to attend, you can register online at www.ura.gov.sg/draftconceptplan2001 or call 321-8259 for details.