When I Was Young

From TODAY, Voices
Friday September 5, 2008

Letter from Maureen Foo

HAVE YOUR SAY
news@newstoday.com.sg

I REFER to “Not in our backyard” (Sept 3).

I have lived in Serangoon Gardens since I was nine months old and called it home for 29 years. Over time, it has retained a sense of homeliness and a reputation for good eats. Even in recent years, with its lifestyle cafes and eateries, it is still peaceful and quiet.

However, if the Ministry of National Development is to go ahead with the housing of 1,000 foreign workers at the former Serangoon Garden South Primary School (SGSS), the face of Serangoon Gardens will change drastically.

I live in Farrer Park now and regret to say that the place feels less secure with a substantial number of foreign workers working and living there as well. Loitering, non-observance of traffic rules and littering are some of the problems they cause.

If the foreign worker dormitory were to materialise in Serangoon Gardens, I fear a similar loss of security and homeliness there.

For example, the presence of a sizeable number of foreign workers will likely affect the ambience at Tavistock Park, next to SGSS. Residents go there to relax and exercise. The park is likely to attract foreign workers as well. I fear that overcrowding and littering will destroy Tavistock Park’s peace and tranquility.

I suggest using the land to expand the park instead; or to start a new school; or even build a new Singapore Sports Council exercise centre for badminton and soccer.

MND should seriously consider the needs of the residents of Serangoon Gardens. Practical considerations must not always take precedence.