Criteria for Priority under Selective En Bloc Redevelopment Scheme

22 Ms Joan Pereira asked the Minister for National Development how does HDB decide on the housing blocks to be given redevelopment priority under the Selective En Bloc Redevelopment Scheme (SERS) in the event that their characteristics in qualifying for SERS are similar.

Mr Lawrence Wong: The identification of precincts for SERS involves a careful evaluation of various factors on a site-by-site basis. As the name suggests, the identification of suitable precincts for SERS is on a highly selective basis.

First, it will depend on the economic viability of the project. This takes into account the potential for redevelopment of the site, the cost of acquisition and related costs, and rehousing benefits and grants.

Second, there must be suitable sites available to rehouse the residents together. This is important for preserving community ties.

Third, there needs to be sufficient financial resources to fund the SERS programme.

Blocks with characteristics that qualify for SERS will be carefully evaluated and announced for SERS progressively.