IPOH: The Perak government has set up a West Coast Expressway (WCE) economic growth committee to plan developments along the project.

       Committee chair Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said it is an effort to maximise the WCE's economic spillover benefits to Perakians.

       WCE is the latest route that connects Selangor and Perak and is expected to be completed by next year.

       “The development will involve five districts in particular that would benefit, namely Bagan Datuk; Hilir Perak; Perak Tengah; Manjung; and Larut, Matang and Selama,” he said in reply to Zafarulazhan Zan (PN-Kampung Gajah) at the state assembly on Wednesday (Feb 28).

       Zafarulazhan wanted to know the state government's development plans along WCE at the Teluk Intan-Lekir stretch.

       Saarani added that in Bagan Datuk, based on the District Local Plan 2035, the area around a radius of 5km from the WCE intersection would see housing, commercial and industrial development as well as the setting up of a Fisheries Research Institute.

       He said as for Hilir Perak, the state government plans to develop a 16km stretch at the Sungai Durian area, with projects such as an aquaculture zone, floating market and halal hub planned.

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       Saarani said Sime Darby Property also plans for housing and commercial development on its land near the WCE intersection towards Teluk Intan.

       “As for the Perak Tengah district, WCE also crosses the Kampung Gajah sub-district along a 12km stretch, where structured housing, development of commercial business and agriculture areas are planned, besides upgrading the existing premises.

       “For the Manjung district, there are plans to develop several sectors including housing, industrial and agriculture.

       “Various housing projects are being implemented to ensure residents in Manjung are able to own homes. A Halal Industrial Park project in Lekir has been established to turn the area into a meat supply hub for the country,” he said.

       Saarani added that for the Larut, Matang and Selama district, the WCE from Beruas to Taiping would have the effect of boosting the tourism sector, especially eco-tourism and eco-heritage.

       “Currently, in areas surrounding the WCE, economic activities include the sale of fruits at several busy areas, and the state government intends to upgrade the existing stalls to create a wider business space and a conducive business atmosphere,” he added.