A 25-storey HDB block in Marine Terrace will soon have a lighthouse on its roof to replace the one currently at Lagoon View condominium, media reports said.
With a clear view of the sea, it will be the first time that a lighthouse takes up residence at a HDB block. And with an unobstructed view of Batam Island, the choice of Block 3 seems like a strategic one, although no explanation for the move has been given.
Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) said that the new lighthouse will not only serve as a navigational aid but will also monitor shipping and maritime activities, such as vessel movements in the strait and in anchorage, as well as sea sports.
Set to be completed in Q3 2015, the lighthouse will be equipped with radio communications equipment as well as closed-circuit TV and electro-optic cameras.
Kent Tiong, a 70-year old retiree who has lived on the 24th storey of Block 3 since it was built in 1975, wonders why the block was chosen over others that are closer to Lagoon View. His neighbour Andrew Ng hopes that the block’s peace and quiet will be maintained.
Marine Parade Citizens Consultative Committee Chairman Chua Ee Chek said: “We have been reassured by MPA that the beacon which has been around in Lagoon View for the past 20 to 30 years poses no health, noise or environmental hazards to the residents.”
Singapore New Launch 