Evaluating Success of Pulau Tekong Polder Project and Assessment of Long-term Viability

33 Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Minister for National Development (a) what policy framework guides the evaluation of the success of the Pulau Tekong polder project; (b) how does that framework specifically assess the method’s suitability for high-density residential, commercial, and/or industrial uses on the mainland; and (c) how are long-term climate adaptation and maintenance costs being weighed against initial sand savings.

Mr Chee Hong Tat: The Pulau Tekong polder project created about 800 hectares of new land, whilst reaping close to 50% of savings in sand used for the reclamation, when compared to traditional land reclamation. The creation of new land for the Ministry of Defence's use has freed up space on the mainland for other uses, such as developing new homes and amenities for Singaporeans. Within the polder, the coastal dike, network of drains and water pumping systems, as well as the stormwater collection pond will also support climate resilience to rising sea levels and more intense rainfall due to climate change. The coastal dike's height can also be raised to adapt to future increase in sea levels, if required.

While the land will be used for military training, it could also potentially support other uses, such as residential, commercial, or industrial uses.

We are monitoring the maintenance costs of the polder, which will require some time to reach a steady state.