Published June 29, 2007

Mah Bow Tan on business hubs, plot ratios


(SINGAPORE) Jurong and Paya Lebar have been designated as new business hubs so as to provide space for Singapore's continued growth as a global business centre, National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan said yesterday.

In the interview with Channel NewsAsia, Mr Tan also commented on speculation about the possibility of sharp increases in plot ratios for land to cope with an anticipated rise in population. He said there is no need for such a move at this point as the figure of a 6.5 million population is a very long-term guide spanning up to 50 years.

On the new business hubs, he said the move would offer an alternative to the crowded Central Business District area.

To grow those areas into new hubs for businesses, the government plans to release sites for new offices, shops, homes and entertainment outlets in those areas.

Mr Tan was giving a preview of the upcoming Master Plan 2008 in his interview with CNA. The plan will go out for public feedback by mid-2008.