In a bid to create clean, safe, functional and attractive laneways, Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has collaborated with Think City to upgrade nine historical laneways in Kuala Lumpur as part of a RM300,000 improvement programme, reported The Edge.
The selected laneways are Lorong Lebuh Ampang, Lorong Bandar 13, Lorong Tun HS Lee South, Lorong Hang Lekiu, Lorong Pudu, Lorong Yap Ah Loy, Lorong Hang Kasturi South and Lorong Tun Tan Cheng Lock.
According to Dr Neil Khor, programme director for Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru at Think City, the laneways were chosen based on the current condition of the space, connectivity and potential to improve existing use by local stakeholders.
“This is ultimately to enhance the vibrancy of Kuala Lumpur through functional and creative spaces that facilitate pedestrian traffic, showcases environmentally friendly practices and deters indecent behaviour through design,” he said during the ground breaking ceremony for the upgrade of Lorong Bandar 13.
He revealed that the programme’s funding will be taken care of by DBKL, while Think City will provide technical support.
Notably, the cost covers work on underground structures and pipes to ensure the laneways are safe for public use. The upgrading programme also involves planning to make sure that the laneways’ historical element is retained.
Khor expects Lorong Bandar 13 to be upgraded by October this year. “Hopefully by 2020, all nine laneways will be upgraded.”
DBKL Project Management Executive Director Datuk Mahadi Che Ngah believes the upgrading project would enable pocket spaces within the city to be better utilised.
“We noticed that there are many spaces in the city centre which are neglected and abandoned. We can’t just leave these space like that,” said Mahadi. “We decided to revive these spaces. We are running out of space in the city so we cannot afford to waste any space in the city.”
Image sourced from Edge Property
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