Forests. Not urban green spaces.

Today the MND announced that green spaces will be increased but didn't differentiate between the existing forest and urban greenery. The ecological and climate benefits provided by the forest simply cannot be replicated by strips of urban greenery. 

There was also an error in his statement: "Initial plans for the sites retained 40 per cent of green spaces in Gillman Barracks". This percentage is factually incorrect.

I have contacted the  ST and CNA journalists. Both news channels have acknowledged and replied that they are clarifying with the Ministry who released the press statement. 

Based on published government studies of the 47ha land parcel, the EIA assessment recorded approx 22 hectares of forests: native-dominated (9.8%), exotic-dominated (21.1%), abandoned-land forest (14.6%), forest stream (0.4%) and approx 10 hectares of other vegetation: grassland/ scrubland (11.3%), urban vegetation (9.6%). 

In summary:
• 22 ha forest
• 10 ha other greenery
• 22+10 = 32 ha existing green spaces

Therefore in the current plan announced on 10th July, the total green spaces cited at 8ha is 25% (not 40%). 

The actual forest retained is a much, much lower percentage. As you know 'green space' isn't the same as forests. It counts all forms of greenery including urban vegetation like roadside trees, bushes and grass. 

Did you know?
• Gillman project is a mix of private and public housing.
• There are at least 9 other new housing projects nearby.
• Residents have suggested many alternative sites besides the Greater Southern Waterfront (30km of brownfields along Singapore's southern coastline)

I had the opportunity to meet MP Rachel Ong today for a discussion. We spoke about reasons to keep Gillman Forest in its entirety as a habitat (instead of a corridor) and about MND's sense of urgency to proceed with deforestation -- despite near-term housings already underway near Gillman.  

Thank You all for spending so much time and energy into the public feedbacks and for supporting the petition! 

Our voices have been heard.
👉 Follow up with your MP
👉 Request that the discussion continues

Have a great weekend