Lim won't rule out scrapping PGCC project

GEORGE TOWN, Tues:

The DAP-led Penang Government has not ruled out the possibility of scrapping the RM25 billion Penang Global City Centre (PGCC) project here.

Newly appointed chief minister Lim Guan Eng said he would meet the Penang Island Municipal Council (MPPP) president and other relevant state agencies to review the suitability of the entire project.

"The PGCC has aroused much concern among the people in Penang,” he told reporters after he was sworn in as Penang chief minister. "I also have my reservations.”

Asked if that meant the project would be scrapped, Lim said the PGCC developer had been directed to review plans but he wanted to get feedback from the relevant agencies first.

"However, if it is not suitable then scrapping it is definitely an option. Since it is already under review it can go both ways," he said.
It was reported that the previous state government under Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon had directed MPPP to ask the developer of the PGCC to scale down the project. This was in response to public complaints over the project's population density and traffic impact.

The PGCC project, which is expected to take 15-years to complete, will be developed by Abad Naluri Sdn Bhd, an associate of Equine Capital. It will be built on the existing 104ha Penang Turf Club land which Abad Naluri purchased for RM488 million in 2002.

Under the original plans, PGCC will house two iconic towers, a performing arts centre, upscale retail shopping outlets, a convention centre, high end condominiums and parks. It is one of the fast track projects that had been identified under the Northern Region Economic Corridor (NCER).

Abad Naluri director Datuk Patrick Lim has since gone on record to state that the company would rope in the best minds from around the world to address any issues arising from the project. He also said that the company would make the necessary revision after taking a second look at the plans.

--NST