THE Housing and Development Board (HDB) will issue family season parking tickets from next month.

They are one of the recommendations announced by Minister of State for National Development, Ms Grace Fu to foster closer family ties.

In a news release, the HDB said the family season parking ticket (SPT) is for HDB residents who require SPT to two different car parks because of family arrangements.

'Many working couples have dinners at their parents' flat or spend time with their children who are left in the care of their family members.'

The HDB said, 'Some residents may also spend considerable amount of time at their parents' or grandparents' flat looking after their daily needs.'

'For such residents, who have already bought a regular SPT to park at their own residential car park, there is a need for a second SPT to park at another car park for visiting their parents, children, grandparents, siblings or their in-laws.'

The Family SPT will be sold at 50 per cent of the regular SPT price applicable to the car park where the Family SPT is to be purchased.

'For example, regular monthly SPT charges for passenger cars are $65 for surface car parks and $90 for multi-storey car parks. The corresponding charges for Family SPT would be at $32.50 and $45.'

The HDB said residents will get priority on parking and the Family SPT will only apply to car parks where there are sufficient parking lots for residents.

The Family SPT holders will enjoy the same benefits as the normal SPT holders - they can park at the designated season parking lots without having to display parking coupons.

Motorists who are buying the Family SPT for the first time may approach any HDB Branch Office/Service Centre with the necessary proof of relationship.

For subsequent renewals, they can do so via internet, self-service kiosks, post or Giro.

For more details of Family SPT, motorist can browse HDB's website. They can also call Branch Office Service Line (toll free) : 1800 2255432 if they need clarification.