A new multi-storey carpark has opened near the Batu Lanchang market and food court, aiming to resolve the long-standing parking issues in the area. With six floors and a capacity of 223 cars, the carpark will provide much-needed relief to market-goers who have struggled to find parking space. Batu Lanchang assemblyman Ong Ah Teong, who oversaw the construction, revealed that the project took four years to complete after its commencement in 2019. Delays were attributed to the Covid-19 pandemic and movement control order, which put a hold on construction for two years. Final inspections were carried out to ensure the safety of the carpark, which was completed on June 19.
Ong had initially requested the construction of three additional multi-storey carparks in the constituency; however, only one was approved. He expressed hopes that this new facility would alleviate the long-standing parking issue in the area, acknowledging that the existing carpark at the market can still be utilized by the public. To encourage usage, the public can access the new carpark for free during the first month of its operation, until the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) announces the parking rates. The new multi-storey carpark officially began operations at 8am on July 25, accessible from behind the Batu Lanchang market.
MBPP issued a statement emphasizing that the new carpark aims to address the lack of parking space around the market, and they hoped for cooperation from the public and carpark users to maintain the facility. The multi-level carpark is open 24 hours to cater to the needs of the public. Muhd Syawal Azmi, a regular visitor to the Batu Lanchang market, expressed his gratitude for the new facility, describing it as a timely solution to the previous parking problem. He also urged both the local council and carpark users to take good care of the carpark to ensure its longevity.
New multi-level carpark at Batu Lanchang Market has 223 parking bays. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
Credit: The Star : Metro Feed
