Retailers and commuters voice concerns regarding high-speed rail

The Straits Times reported that some businesses are concerned about the potential competition from new commercial entities that will pop up in the area where the new terminus will be sited.

"If they build more shops there, it would definitely take away our business," said Ms. Lisa Ching, 46, owner of clothing store Lisa Lisa in JCube mall.

Owners of retail shops at Housing Board blocks are particularly jittery about this. Already, they are feeling the heat from the opening of new shopping malls Jem, JCube and Westgate in recent years.

Ms. Su Ya Mi, 40, owner of health supplement store Value Wellness Organic at Block 130, Jurong Gateway Road, said, "People would rather shop in malls where it is comfortable and air-conditioned."

On Monday, the Government announced that the high-speed rail terminus will sit on a 67ha plot which will also include offices, hotels, retail and family entertainment facilities, and possibly residential units.

For residents, the main concerns about the high-speed rail are congestion and the strain on current public transport options, in particular the Jurong East MRT station which serves as an interchange between two trunk lines.

Another group of residents who are upset are those who are members of Jurong Country Club, which will give up its land for the new high-speed rail. The club's members, whose median age is 55, include many who are retirees.