HDB has reduced the number of homes planned for Maju Forest and Gillman Barracks by about 1,200, following public feedback and a review of environmental studies.
Announced on 28 October, the revised plans provide for about 400 fewer flats at Maju Forest and 800 fewer homes at Gillman Barracks, Minister of State for National Development Alvin Tan said.
About 11,000 homes are still expected across the two sites over the next decade. These comprise around 4,000 public housing units at Maju Forest and 7,000 homes at Gillman Barracks, including about 5,500 public housing units.
More Greenery at Both Sites
At Maju Forest, also known as Sunset Way, about 10 hectares will be retained as greenery, up from around eight hectares under the original plans.
That represents about 45 per cent of the 23-hectare site, compared with approximately 35 per cent previously.
HDB said retaining more greenery in the southern section would create a larger, connected green area and strengthen ecological links along the Clementi Nature Corridor.
At Gillman Barracks, the greenery retained will increase from about eight to 12 hectares. This represents about 60 per cent of its existing 20 hectares of greenery, rather than 60 per cent of the entire development site.
Significant portions of the greenery at both locations will be safeguarded as nature parks.
Thousands of Submissions Helped Shape the Review
During public consultation from 10 July to 6 August, HDB received about 7,200 submissions concerning Maju Forest and 2,300 concerning Gillman Barracks.
Authorities also engaged about 1,000 stakeholders, including nature groups, young people, academics and built-environment professionals.
Feedback included concerns about habitat loss, biodiversity and wildlife connectivity, alongside suggestions to use alternative sites or reduce the areas earmarked for development. HDB said alternative locations were assessed against their existing uses, availability and ability to meet housing needs within the required timeframe.
To accommodate homes within smaller development areas, HDB plans to use the remaining land more efficiently, including through taller blocks.
The housing numbers remain estimates and will undergo further study during detailed design. Housing mix and launch dates will be announced when ready.
Works Expected From 2027
At Gillman Barracks, site works are expected to begin in the second half of 2027 with building demolition. Land preparation is expected to start in 2029.
At Maju Forest, land preparation is expected from the first half of 2028, when public access will be restricted.
Before development begins in vegetated areas, an environmental management and monitoring plan will set out measures to reduce impacts and protect greenery earmarked for retention.
