Written Reply by Minister for Transport S Iswaran to Parliamentary Question on Prior Consultation with Affected Residents for Acquisition of 68-74 Thomson Road

Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Minister for Transport with regard to the acquisition of 68-74 Thomson Road 

a.     whether the acquisition happened without any prior consultation with the current owners of the residential units; and 

b.     what is the expected use of the land after the construction of the North-South Corridor.

Reply by Minister for Transport S Iswaran:

1.     Since September 2020, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has been engaging the owners and tenants at 68-74 Thomson Road (“the Building”) on the impact of North-South Corridor (NSC) works on the property. This includes assisting occupants with their relocation before the start of the tunnelling works.

2.     However, when further detailed and invasive tests revealed that the Building’s concrete strength was unable to withstand the strengthening works to the foundation, we had no choice but to acquire the building for demolition on safety considerations.

3.     All affected owners will receive market value compensation for their properties. As all acquisitions of land are market sensitive, announcements are made through publication in the Government gazette and all registered owners were notified about the acquisition on the date of the gazette.

4.     The NSC is expected to be completed around 2027. The long-term plans for the site will be finalised at a later stage.