Outward Bound Singapore (OBS) recently announced that construction of their new campus on Coney Island has started. This led to no small amount of disappointment by some nature lovers about the potential loss of natural habits on the island. While I understand the noble objectives of OBS to build a “rugged society”, particularly among our youths, I am concerned about the construction of building structures taking place in our National Parks. Coney Island Park is not the only instance. In 2022, the HomeTeamNS Bedok Clubhouse will be “nestled” within Bedok Reservoir Park as well.
Concerned residents had highlighted this to me earlier this year during my house visits. I asked the Minister for National Development about this during the April 2021 sitting of Parliament. This was what he replied:
LIMITS IN PLACE FOR CONSTRUCTION OF BUILDING STRUCTURES ON LAND DESIGNATED AS NATIONAL PARK
Sitting Date: 5-4-2021
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for National Development (a) what limits are in place for the construction of building structures on land designated as a national park; (b) why was Bedok Reservoir Park chosen as the site for the construction of the HomeTeamNS Bedok Clubhouse; (c) why Coney Island Park was chosen as the site for the construction of a second Outward Bound Singapore campus; and (d) whether facilities like these can be built outside national parks instead so as not to destroy green areas in the park.
Mr Desmond Lee: Compatible facilities are co-located in and near parks to provide park visitors with a wider range of amenities, while allowing users of these facilities to be closer to nature. When planning for such facilities, we assess whether they complement the park and if there is suitable space available. Such facilities are designed to be integrated with the surrounding landscape, and to minimise impact on greenery.
The HomeTeamNS Bedok Clubhouse site was selected to provide visitors to Bedok Reservoir Park with more amenities, while allowing waterfront access for activities conducted by the Clubhouse. To minimise impact to the park, the Clubhouse is located primarily on an open area. Its design is also kept fenceless and porous, with lush planting to retain the park ambience.
The site for the Outward Bound Singapore (OBS) campus at Coney Island was chosen as it is easily accessible to mainland Singapore and the other OBS campus at Pulau Ubin. The waterfront setting is beneficial for the running of outdoor educational programmes for our youth. OBS is working with NParks, nature groups, and various stakeholders to design the campus to fit into the character of Coney Island, and to enhance the greenery where possible.
