The developer of the controversial Forest City project has slammed reports that the Department of Environment (DOE) has shrunk the 1,600ha reclamation project in Johor Strait to a quarter of its size or just 405ha.
In a statement, Md. Othman, executive director of Country Garden Pacific View (CGP), said limiting the size of the project was never discussed with the DOE.
“In the most recent discussions in late December 2014, the DOE and Country Garden Pacific View discussed assessment directives and compliance to high standards. These discussions do not mean that the project size is to be limited or compromised in any way,” he said.
Notably, it has been reported that the DOE has set a new limit to the Forest City project, which was conveyed verbally to the developer, after the Singapore government and locals raised issues over the project’s negative impact on the environment.
“CGP is in constant communication with multiple stakeholders and the regulatory authorities, ensuring that the project development always takes into consideration the needs of the communities and the environment. The DOE is one such regulatory authority that we engage (with) and consult to ensure full compliance,” said Othman.
To keep all interested parties and stakeholders up-to-date, CGP is developing a dedicated online vehicle, which will go live by 9 January, to serve as a frequently asked question response platform, revealed Othman.
Farah Wahida, Editor of PropertyGuru, wrote this story. To contact her about this or other stories email farahwahida@propertyguru.com.my