Unease over elder-care centre in void decks

Residents meeting at Block 861 in Woodlands Street 83 last night to discuss the issue. Among their concerns are increased traffic and how such a centre would be 'inauspicious' as it may mean more deaths in the estate. -- ST PHOTO: CHEW SENG KIM

By Janice Tai & Peter Wong

The Ministry of Health (MOH) will review plans to build a day-care centre for the elderly in the void decks of two facing Housing Board blocks in Woodlands, after residents there petitioned against the move.

Some argued that the area was already overcrowded with other public facilities. Others cited concerns like increased traffic, and how such a centre would be 'inauspicious' as it may mean more deaths in the estate.

The ministry's promise came even as Health Minister Gan Kim Yong told netizens that such centres were necessary to provide the elderly with a convenient place near their homes for them to stay active and engaged.

He said the ministry should always take into account the views of all parties and find the best solutions, but cautioned: 'We may not be able to satisfy everyone, and some sensible compromises may have to be made. Hope to have understanding from those affected.'

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Unease over elder-care centre in void decks