Utilisation Rate of Parking Lots in Multi-storey Car Parks of Newer HDB Estates
Ministry of National DevelopmentSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the utilisation rates of multi-storey car park (MSCP) lots in newer HDB estates and the potential repurposing of underutilised spaces. Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked for usage data in Sengkang and Punggol and whether empty levels could serve other functions. Minister for National Development Desmond Lee stated that the average season parking take-up rate is 66% islandwide and 50% to 70% in Sengkang and Punggol. He explained that HDB monitors these rates to balance resident and visitor needs, considering repurposing options based on technical feasibility and resident impact. Potential uses include converting MSCP rooftops into community gardens or urban farms under the HDB Green Towns Programme.
Transcript
46 Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether HDB has conducted any study on the utilisation rate of parking lots in multi-storey car parks (MSCPs) of newer estates such as Sengkang and Punggol; (b) if so, what is the average usage-to-empty lot ratio in a given month or year; and (c) whether there are plans to utilise empty lots or levels in MSCPs for other purposes if they are underutilised for extended periods of time.
Mr Desmond Lee: The Housing and Development Board (HDB) monitors the utilisation rate of HDB car parks to ensure that there is a good balance between providing season parking lots for residents and having sufficient capacity for short-term or visitor parking. Parking utilisation rates vary across car parks as these are dependent on various factors, such as the flat mix and profile of residents. On average, the season parking take-up rate is around 66% across all HDB car parks islandwide. For the HDB car parks in Sengkang and Punggol specifically, the season parking take-up rate ranges from 50% to 70%.
For car parks where parking utilisation is lower, HDB currently considers repurposing them to other uses, subject to factors such as technical feasibility and an assessment of the potential dis-amenities to residents. For example, as part of efforts to intensify greenery in HDB estates under the HDB Green Towns Programme, suitable HDB Multi-storey Car Parks (MSCP) rooftops are being converted to community gardens or commercial urban farms.