THE construction of a senior-friendly park at Taman Lip Sin is almost complete, with the works now at 93% and expected to wrap up by the end of this month.
Penang Island City Council (MBPP) councillor Chan Soon Aun said the RM800,000 project, located next to Block 6 in Taman Lip Sin, is part of the council’s “Age-Friendly City” initiative.
“This is believed to be the first senior-friendly leisure park in the country. It will provide a safe and comfortable space for people of all ages, especially the elderly,” he said.
Spanning about 0.9 acres, the park will feature sports equipment, a children’s playground, a multi-purpose plaza and other facilities.
Chan said the park would serve as a much-needed “green lung” for the area, which is surrounded by high-rise flats housing over 13,000 residents.
“This is a beautiful park. It not only provides a space for seniors to exercise and socialise, but also fosters family bonding. Residents can enjoy quality time together, which helps strengthen community ties,” he added.
Addressing concerns raised by residents, Chan assured that the design had taken safety into account.
“Most of the pathways will have friendlier slopes and surfaces, while steeper sections will be fitted with handrails to assist senior citizens,” he said.
He added that the council was also working on transforming Taman Lip Sin into a more pedestrian-friendly neighbourhood.
“We want to encourage residents to walk more in their daily routines by making the sidewalks safer and more attractive. This includes upgrading pedestrian routes near Lip Sin Market and hawker centres, as well as repainting nearby flats to improve the environment,” he said.
Chan noted, however, that such improvements would take time and require cooperation from various parties.
“These plans will have to be carried out in phases, with the involvement of the Public Works Department, the council, the private sector and of course, the residents themselves,” he said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud