Woodlands Checkpoint extension poses no significant environmental impacts: ICA
ICA will set up enhanced safety measures, environmental monitoring and management plan to mitigate impact on surroundings
SINGAPORE —Singapore's Woodlands Checkpoint (WCP) extension project is expected to have no significant environmental impacts.
In a media release on Thursday (3 August), the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority of Singapore (ICA) revealed the findings of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) studies for the proposed extension of WCP to Old Woodlands Checkpoint and Old Woodlands Town Centre.
ICA said the proposed extension aims to meet projected cross-border demands, while enhancing safety and security at the checkpoint.
Recognising the significance of the development's location near sensitive residential and ecological areas, two separate EIA studies were conducted. The aim was to evaluate potential environmental impacts and establish effective mitigation measures for the project.
Minimal impact on key areas and environmental mitigation measures
The EIA reports assessed that "no significant impacts" are predicted in key areas such as biodiversity, hydrology, water quality and air quality.
According to ICA, measures to minimise environmental disruptions during the project's construction and operational phases have been put in place.
For instance, noise levels during construction are expected to be a concern due to the surrounding forested and undisturbed areas. However, through the adoption of mitigation measures, noise impacts have been significantly reduced.
Findings for external infrastructure works
Regarding the external infrastructure works for the WCP extension, the EIA report suggests no impacts on biodiversity and ecology, airborne noise, surface hydrology and water quality, ground vibration, and air quality.
While there will be a slight loss of terrestrial habitats and flora, the report said that using green buffers, native flora species planting and vertical greenery will help reduce the overall impact significance.
The authorities have also developed an environmental monitoring and management plan that includes ecological and environmental monitoring, wildlife shepherding, and pre-felling fauna inspections.
These measures aim to address potential environmental impacts during both construction phases.
The ICA has made the EIA reports available for public viewing. The reports can be viewed by appointment at CPG Consultants until 30 August.
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