Robustness of Trials Where Nets Were Placed in 35 Flats in Punggol and Toa Payoh to Prevent Pigeon Nesting Behaviour

50 Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the Ministry has assessed if the trial to place netting on air-conditioner ledges on only 35 flats in Punggol and Toa Payoh can yield robust findings on pigeon nesting behaviour; (b) what criteria was used when selecting these estates; (c) whether other estates with persistent pigeon issues were offered to participate in the trial; and (d) if not, why not.

Mr Chee Hong Tat: The Housing and Development Board (HDB) is conducting a study to evaluate the effectiveness of half-height netting solutions in preventing pigeon nesting at the air-conditioner ledges of HDB blocks. The study will complement the National Parks Board's islandwide pigeon management efforts.

HDB is carrying out a trial on 35 units with two typical types of air-conditioner ledges. This would allow HDB to assess the effectiveness and robustness of the solution, before deciding if it can be scaled up to other parts of Singapore. HDB had selected the flats in Punggol and Toa Payoh for the trial after considering feedback from the Town Councils and residents regarding pigeon nesting at air-conditioner ledges.

After the trial is completed, HDB will share its findings with all Town Councils.