Residents are worried about the higher plot ratio and increased traffic volume resulting from the proposed residential and commercial development to replace Wisma Damansara (at right). — CHAN TAK KONG/The Star
THE proposed redevelopment of Wisma Damansara is in line with Kuala Lumpur Local Plan (PTKL) 2040 Planning Guidelines, its developer says.
BRDB Developments Sdn Bhd in a statement said it had complied with Rule 3 of the guidelines, which mandates public consultation, regarding the Damansara Heights site.
“We are committed to complying with Kuala Lumpur City Hall’s (DBKL) due process under the Urban Renewal Redevelopment Scheme and adhering to all regulatory requirements.”
The statement came after more than 300 households in Damansara Heights submitting a letter of objection to DBKL on Aug 15, on the redevelopment of Wisma Damansara, located in Jalan Semantan, into a residential and commercial retail hub.
According to the BRDB website, the proposed project will be a flagship development featuring premium residential and commercial retail spaces.
The 16-storey Wisma Damansara, built in 1970 by Selangor Properties, was the first commercial office building in Damansara Heights. It is now vacant.
Segambut Subzone 3 Federal Territory Residents Representative Council (MPPWP) chairman Ravindran Markandu said residents objected due to the increased plot ratio as well as traffic concerns.
“The proposed plot ratio of 1:9.6 is significantly higher than the 1:6 ratio in PTKL 2040.
“It is far too high and will have long-term density and traffic implications for the area,” he said.
Ravindran, who is also Bukit Damansara House Owners Association deputy president, said increase in traffic was anticipated.
“Jalan Semantan heading towards Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim is congested during peak hours and the development will create gridlock.
“We propose DBKL only allow residential blocks and not office buildings, as this will help reduce traffic,” he said.
Association committee member Jeffery Yoon said they were also concerned about access roads to the proposed development.
“It seems that there is only one access in and out, which is along Jalan Semantan,” he said.
DBKL had not responded to queries as at press time.
