The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) has been working closely with Ministry of National Development (MND) and other relevant agencies, over the past year, on the planning the relocation of Paya Lebar Airbase (PLAB).
In a written answer to a query in Parliament on 20 January, Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen said, “PLAB’s relocation will be a long term and complex undertaking that will be realised at about 2030 and beyond as Changi Airbase East and Tengah Airbase will have to be expanded to accommodate various assets and facilities to replace PLAB.”
Authorities are currently focusing on expanding Changi Airbase East and building a new runway at Changi, which will need close coordination with the ongoing runway and terminal expansion works at Singapore Changi Airport.
Meanwhile, the current effort for Tengah Airbase is on the detailed airbase facility design.
“MINDEF will continue to work closely with MND and the relevant agencies on the detailed planning and implementation of the relocation. At the same time, we will ensure that the RSAF maintains its deterrent edge and continues to be an effective and formidable force to safeguard Singapore’s peace and security,” Dr Ng added.
In 2013, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced the government will shift PLAB to Changi East in order to free up 800 hectares of land for homes, parks, offices and factories – a move which has excited property players.
Muneerah Bee, Senior Journalist at PropertyGuru, wrote this story. To contact her about this or other stories email muneerah@propertyguru.com.sg
