IPOH: The development of a recreational park is a key condition for the Ipoh Sentral project, says Anthony Loke.
The Transport Minister said it was vital for local folk to experience and benefit from the park first before the project progresses.
Loke said the park was the first phase of the project and expected it to be completed between six to 12 months.
"It is important for local residents to experience the benefits of the project first-hand.
"What is the meaning of the development if the local community cannot feel its impact?," he said in his opening speech during the groundbreaking ceremony of Phase 1 of the Ipoh Sentral project near the Ipoh Railway Station here on Saturday (Aug 16).
"The recreational park is vital as it aligns with the aspirations of the Malaysia Madani concept," he added.
The project, which will be developed behind the railway station, costs about RM6.26bil and will be divided into two phases.
The first phase involves the preservation of a 2.55ha of green space, including landscape upgrades and the recreational park.
The second phase will cover a 24.7ha mixed-use development, which is expected to take about 20 years to complete.
Also present were Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
