City council considers biennial structural reports after falling debris incidents injure tourists, damage car in George Town
PROPERTY owners in George Town’s heritage enclave may soon have to submit structural assessment reports every two years.
The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) is considering making these reports mandatory to ensure that heritage buildings remain safe and well maintained.
Penang island mayor Datuk A. Rajendran said the council was also weighing plans to engage qualified engineers to conduct visual inspections of heritage buildings within the George Town World Heritage Site, in addition to requiring the submission of structural assessment reports.
“Owners are strongly encouraged to carry out regular maintenance of their heritage properties throughout the year and to undertake a structural inspection at least once every two years.
“Given the age of these buildings, periodic inspections are essential to identify early signs of deterioration and to ensure the safety of occupants and the public,” he told StarMetro when contacted.
Rajendran said MBPP records showed that out of more than 5,000 heritage buildings within the George Town World Heritage Site (GTWHS), 66 were poorly maintained and 63 were dilapidated.
He urged owners and occupants to pay close attention to signs of structural deterioration, including cracks in walls, leaning walls, decayed timber beams, water seepage, roof damage, termite infestation, loose plaster and any movement or displacement of structural elements.
“Property owners and occupants are encouraged to visit the Department of Heritage Conservation at the Town Hall during office hours to obtain advice and guidance on appropriate conservation methods and maintenance practices,” he said.
He added that recent incidents served as an important reminder that all owners of heritage properties had a responsibility to carry out periodic inspections and maintenance.
“This is to preserve the historical significance, structural integrity and safety of these valuable buildings for future generations,” he said.
On Aug 4, a termite-infested timber beam broke off from the front of a heritage shophouse in Lebuh Armenian.
Two Sri Lankan tourists were injured and hospitalised after it fell on them.
It was the second incident of debris falling from an old building in George Town within a few days.
On Aug 1, part of the roof of another heritage building along Jalan Green Hall collapsed onto the road and damaged a parked car while its owner was away.
