Third Penang bridge, undersea tunnel remain indicative in draft RSNPP 2040 — CM Chow

GEORGE TOWN (Aug 17): The proposed construction of Penang’s third bridge or an undersea tunnel from Gurney Drive to Bagan Ajam remains included indicatively in the draft Penang Structure Plan (RSNPP) 2040 (Review).

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow (pictured) said the proposals remained in the planning document as the agreements relating to the projects were still valid and subject to the stipulated development schedule.

“I am referring to the tunnel or bridge because we have already awarded the project to the company involved. Similarly, many development sites or zones are included only indicatively.

“When they are developed may depend on the government or private sector planning the development,” he told reporters after officiating the Publicity and Public Participation Programme for the draft RSNPP 2040 (Review) here on Monday.

The proposed 6.5km undersea tunnel linking Gurney Drive to Bagan Ajam on the mainland is part of the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP).

On the development of Jerejak Island under the draft plan, Chow said about 80 acres of land there were privately owned, while the remainder remained gazetted as permanent forest reserve.

“Infrastructure utility projects may still be considered in forest reserves, but not other forms of development. What has been announced involves privately owned land and does not affect the permanent forest reserve on Jerejak Island,” he said.

Chow said the draft RSNPP 2040 took into account balanced development between the island and Seberang Perai, as well as development needs in growth centres and peripheral areas.

He said disaster risk planning was among the technical aspects considered in preparing the plan to formulate policies and development strategies for the state’s future.

Chow also urged all Penangites, ministries and government departments, local authorities, the private sector, academic institutions, professional bodies, non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders to study the draft plan and submit constructive feedback and proposals.

“I want to stress that the draft plan is not a document we consider perfect. Instead, we are giving the public an opportunity to scrutinise it, provide feedback and suggestions and, where necessary, challenge proposals based on facts, expertise and the public interest,” he said.

The draft RSNPP 2040, the state’s strategic planning document outlining the overall direction for physical, economic, social and environmental development up to 2040, is open for public consultation until Sept 9.

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