SINGAPORE: Work on a second Singapore cruise ship terminal is likely to start next year, the chief of the city—state’s tourism board said Monday.
Lim Neo Chian said on local radio that plans call for a second terminal to be built in the Marina South district, where SingaporeÂ’s first casino complex is expected to open in 2009.
"WeÂ’re fairly optimistic that we should be OK to start next year," Lim said.
He said some bigger ships have difficulty getting to the current terminal located across from Sentosa island. The facility has two berths for international cruise liners.
Because of increasing demand, the existing facility is also "a little bit congested at times," Lim added.
He did not give a cost for the new facility but said "typical developmental issues" still need to be resolved.
"Once the key issues are settled we will work at double time to get the cruise terminal up as soon as possible," he said.
Singapore has launched a series of projects to boost its tourism appeal. Among them are two casino developments, and a Formula One road race to be held next year.
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