Image credit: CC BY-SA 2.0
In February, we shared the ambitious plans for expanding the Woodlands Checkpoint, revealing its intent to grow five times its current size by 2025. Now, what’s on the horizon? Well, JTL has released more details on the initial steps before the expansion measures kick into high gear, and it involves land reclamation.
The expansion plans
The Woodlands Checkpoint‘s expansion blueprint encompasses reclaiming approximately 44 hectares of land, divvied into 34 hectares on the western flank and 10 hectares on the eastern front.
To put it into perspective, that’s akin to adding over 60 football fields.
Moreover, this expansion will ensure a greater buffer zone between the Woodlands Checkpoint and the neighbouring nature reserves, including the Mandai Mangrove and Mudflat Nature Park.
Read more: Woodlands Checkpoint expansion to start in 2025 and grow to 5-times its current size
Environmental impact
To address environmental concerns, the expansion’s environmental impact underwent rigorous scrutiny, leading to adjustments in the initially proposed areas to mitigate ecological consequences.
An extensive environmental impact assessment, spearheaded by JTC, covered a total expanse of 66.6 hectares, which encompassed 36.4 hectares on the western end and 30.2 hectares on the eastern periphery.
JTC actively sought public input for the environmental study report, making it accessible for public perusal from January 29 to February 26, albeit subject to a non-disclosure agreement. Eventually, the reclaimed area was scaled down to 44 hectares.
Read more: ‘Long Island’ project set to expand East Coast by 800ha
Woodlands Checkpoint land reclamation timeline
The slated commencement for reclamation efforts is the third quarter of 2024, with an anticipated completion by 2029.
The delineation of timelines differs between the western and eastern sections.
Read more: 9 HDB blocks in Woodlands to be acquired to make way for Woodlands Checkpoint expansion
Phased redevelopment
Woodlands Checkpoint’s redevelopment will unfold in several phases over 10 to 15 years.
The initial phase, featuring extensions at the Old Woodlands Town Centre and the Bukit Timah Expressway (BKE), aims for progressive completion starting from 2028, culminating in full operationalization by 2032.
Checkpoint improvements
The revamped checkpoint sets its sights on a substantial reduction in average clearance time during peak periods, aiming to slash it from an hour to a mere 15 minutes. This enhancement is designed to cater to all vehicle types, fostering operational efficiency.
Transportation improvements
Moreover, the Bukit Timah Expressway extension seeks to alleviate congestion, particularly during peak hours, with minimal impact on adjacent natural landscapes. This extension also anticipates upgrading surrounding road networks to enhance traffic flow.
TL;DR – What’s going on?
In summary, the Woodlands Checkpoint expansion initiative entails reclaiming about 44 hectares of land, divided into 34 hectares on the western side and 10 hectares on the eastern side.
Reclamation endeavours are projected to commence in the third quarter of 2024, with a targeted completion by 2029. Phased redevelopment over the subsequent decade aims to accommodate escalating demands.
How can the Woodlands Checkpoint expansion benefit you?
- Reduced clearance time: The streamlined processes aim to curtail clearance duration from an hour to 15 minutes, enhancing efficiency for all vehicle types.
- Increased capacity: Cargo and arrival car clearance capacities are slated to surge by 30% and 95%, respectively, fostering operational flexibility during peak traffic influxes.
- Automation and security: Embracing automation, such as automated in-car immigration clearance systems, and repositioning security checks will fortify security measures.
- Traffic flow improvements: A direct exit route onto the Bukit Timah Expressway will ease congestion, alongside upgraded road networks to optimise traffic circulation.
- Environmental considerations: Stringent environmental assessments ensure mitigation measures to curb ecological impact, coupled with noise barriers to minimise residential disturbance.
- Long-term travel benefits: The expansion endeavours to provide a sustainable solution to chronic congestion, guaranteeing smoother travels and preemptively addressing future traffic escalations.
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What do you think about these land reclamation initiatives? Let us know in the comments section below or on our Facebook page.
This article is a product of 99.co and is based on information gathered from various sources, including The Straits Times, Mothership, and Channel News Asia. These sources are used in good faith to provide valuable insights. The source of the referenced content is duly credited and we recommend readers refer them for a comprehensive understanding of the topic. 99.co is not responsible for errors, omissions, or consequences from using this information.
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