Yishun to get exciting new facilities in facelift. Among them are a library and possibly a shopping complex linked to interchange (Extract)
By Francis Chan
Published: July 26 2008,
The StraitsTimes
YISHUN might be showing its age but it is in line for a radical renewal that will smarten up existing facilities and add exciting new ones.
Details of the rejuvenation plan were announced yesterday, and include additions to the town centre, including the Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, a new library, covered walkways and possibly a new shopping complex integrated with the bus interchange.
A new boardwalk will also connect the town centre to outdoor areas like Yishun Pond.
The plan, Remaking Our Heartland: Enriching My Yishun, is part of a nationwide Neighbourhood Renewal Programme announced by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in his National Day Rally speech last year.
Its aim is to enhance the value of homes and neighbourhoods through upgrading and estate renewal projects.
Mr Mah also officiated at the launch of the first Home Improvement Programme (HIP) in Singapore.
The HIP allows flat owners to have certain essential improvements carried out at the expense of the Government, which will also subsidise some optional ones.
Owners can vote on the work they want done at their estates and in their flats. Essential improvements include mending weathered concrete and replacing waste pipes, while optional ones refer to upgrades of toilets, entrance doors, metal grille gates and refuse hoppers.
Owners co-pay between $550 and $1,375 if they choose any of the optional improvements, depending on flat size.
Exhibitions have been set up in Yishun Street 21 to give owners a better idea of their options under the HIP before they vote on their choice of improvements.
Polling closes on Monday. HDB needs a minimum support of 75 per cent from eligible residents before works can be carried out.