By Francis Chan

YISHUN might be showing its age but it is in line for a radical renewal plan that will smarten up existing facilities and add smart new ones.

Details of the rejuvenation plan were announced on Friday night by National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan.

The additions to the town centre include the Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, a new library, covered walkways and improvements at the bus interchange.

A 'Wellness Walk' will also be created to connect the town centre to outdoor areas such as the Yishun Pond and Lower Seletar Reservoir.

The plan, called A Vibrant Hub and Great Outdoors, is part of a nationwide Neighbourhood Renewal Programme (NRP) announced by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in his National Day rally last year.

Its aim is to enhance the value of homes and neighbourhoods, through upgrading and estate renewal projects.

National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan, who outlined the upgrading plans, said: 'Through this initiative, the Government will build the HDB heartland of tomorrow to match the rising expectations of our people and make Singapore our best home.'

Mr Mah also officiated at the launch of the Home Improvement Programme (HIP) in Yishun.

This scheme allows home owners to have certain essential improvements carried out at the Government's expense while it will subsidise some optional ones.

Owners can vote on the work they want done in their blocks.

Essential improvements include mending weathered concrete and replacing waste pipes, while optional ones cover upgrades of toilets, entrance doors, metal grille gates and refuse hoppers. Owners will co-pay between $550 and $1,375 for these, depending on the flat size.

Mr Mah also opened the 'Enriching My Yishun' and HIP exhibitions, to showcase the improvements that will be carried out under the new initiatives.

Exhibitions have been set up at Yishun Street 21 to give owners a better idea of their options under the HIP before they vote on their choice of improvements.

Polling closes on Monday. The HDB requires a minimum support of 75 per cent among eligible Yishun residents before HIP works can be carried out.

For the full story, read Saturday's edition of The Straits Times.