GEORGE TOWN – The proposed draft of the Penang Island Local Plan has been finally exhibited to the public after the state government came under heavy criticism for the lengthy delay in its unveiling.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said it took time before the draft could be made available for public and ratepayers’ scrutiny as it had to undergo proper due process.
The island had been without a local plan for reference for the past three decades.
The completion of the plan was also part of Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) manifesto for the last general election in 2018, Chow said.
The draft of the local plan for Seberang Prai will also be released soon, he added.
Speaking after launching the public display of the draft at the Syed Alatas Mansion in Armenian Street here, Chow said that ratepayers are encouraged to view the draft at both the mansion and at MakerSpace in the Balik Pulau hawker complex from now until December 13.
As part of the process, the public has been encouraged to offer feedback and suggestions to ensure the local plan is fine-tuned to serve the needs of all ratepayers here, he said.
“The views and feedback from the stakeholders in Penang would be an invaluable contribution to ensure that future planning is regulated well,” he said.
The plan was crafted by town planners at Penang Island City Council (MBPP) with input from consultants at AJM Planning and Urban Design Group Sdn Bhd.
Chow said that the local plan will also streamline the state’s development plans in line with the national physical planning master plan and the 2030 state structure plan.
Among those present were local government executive councillor Jagdeep Singh Deo, MBPP president and Penang Island Mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang, as well as MBPP secretary Datuk A. Rajendran.
Earlier, Jagdeep urged town planners to bear in mind the effects of climate change when approving future development.
He also said that the state goverment is committed to upholding all promises made previously, although some may take longer to realise due to unforeseen circumstances.
“But we will get there in fulfilling our pledges,” he said. – The Vibes, October 20, 2022
