Property owners within the George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site will soon enjoy a faster and more streamlined pathway to convert residential properties into shophouses.

The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has approved a new guideline, effective May 1, removing the need for planning permission (kebenaran merancang) for selected change-of-use applications within the heritage zone. Instead, owners are only required to submit building plans, a move expected to cut the approval process by six to nine months.

According to MBPP mayor Rajendran P. Anthony, the revision is aimed at facilitating property owners while reducing procedural delays and compliance costs. The guideline applies to both pre-war and post-war buildings that contribute to the heritage value of George Town, including those of Early Penang and Straits Eclectic architectural styles.

Under the new rules, terrace houses may be converted into shophouses, with commercial use restricted to the ground floor and upper levels retained for residential purposes. While minor additions are allowed, these must remain within the existing building footprint, with no increase in building height permitted in order to preserve the historical streetscape.

Parking requirements remain in place, although developers can opt to pay a contribution in lieu, set at RM25,000 per car bay and RM2,500 per motorcycle bay. A separate conversion charge of RM100 per sq m will also apply for residential-to-commercial use.

The revised guideline replaces previous provisions, balancing improved efficiency with continued safeguards to protect the site’s Outstanding Universal Value.

Separately, MBPP also received the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation for the Esplanade Seawall and Promenade project, recognised under the “New Design in Heritage Contexts” category.

About G’Vinton

A serviced residence development by GSD Land in George Town. The project spans approximately 1 acre and is strategically positioned between Ambank and the NSTP building, offering convenient access to KOMTAR and Gurney Drive. The development will include 336 serviced suites, a nine-level car parking podium, and four shop offices on the ground floor. Recreational facilities will be located on level 39.

Find out more about G’Vinton

An artist’s impressions of Beach Street after the project is completed

Beach Street in George Town is set to undergo a major transformation, with a climate-adaptive upgrade aimed at enhancing walkability, reducing urban heat and improving the overall streetscape within the heritage core zone. Long regarded as one of the city’s most historic commercial corridors, the area will be reconfigured to better balance modern urban needs with heritage preservation.

The RM24.7 million project is part of the Nature-Based Climate Adaptation Programme (PNBCAP), jointly implemented by the Penang Island City Council with funding support from the World Bank Adaptation Fund. Covering a 1.76km loop that includes Beach Street, Church Street Ghaut and Victoria Street, the project commenced in September last year and is scheduled for completion by December. Progress has reached approximately 30% as of late March, with works carried out in phases to minimise disruption to traffic and business activities.

A key focus of the initiative is to mitigate the urban heat island effect. Plans include the planting of more than 900 trees, alongside the introduction of green corridors, pocket parks and permeable surfaces to improve drainage and reduce surface temperatures. These measures are expected to enhance thermal comfort while contributing to better air quality and flood management within the heritage zone.

The project also places strong emphasis on pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Wider walkways, shaded paths and barrier-free features such as ramps, tactile paving and seating areas will be incorporated to improve accessibility for all users. At the same time, roadside parking will be reduced from 293 bays to about 150, with selected spaces converted into landscaped areas.

While initial concerns were raised about potential impacts on the street’s historic character, authorities have indicated that strict safeguards are in place to protect key heritage assets, including the Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower. The existing roundabout in front of the landmark will be transformed into a pocket park, in line with conservation guidelines under the George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site Special Area Plan.

In addition to landscaping improvements, sustainability features such as solar-powered street lighting and environmental sensors will be introduced to monitor temperature, humidity and air quality. These measures will allow for post-completion evaluation of the project’s effectiveness and inform future climate-adaptive initiatives.

From a broader perspective, the upgrade is expected to support local businesses by improving accessibility, enhancing the streetscape and encouraging greater pedestrian activity. As the project progresses, it is also seen as a potential model for similar urban interventions across Penang, reinforcing efforts to create a more resilient, liveable and environmentally responsive city.

(Image: The Star)

About Taman Simpang Empat

A low-density residential enclave within the SA Central freehold mixed-development by GUH Development Sdn. Bhd., located in Simpang Ampat. Comprising 61 units of 2-storey terrace homes with built-up areas starting from approximately 1,776 sq.ft., the development is designed to cater to modern family living. Strategically connected to major roads and the North–South Highways, and surrounded by everyday amenities, schools and commercial hubs, Taman Simpang Empat offers a balanced lifestyle anchored by comfort, connectivity and long-term value within the upcoming SA Central township.

Find out more about Taman Simpang Empat

There is something timeless about living by the water. The gentle rhythm of the sea, the openness of the horizon, and the quiet assurance that every day begins with possibility. AVÉA @ Andaman Island captures this spirit beautifully, offering a refined waterfront address set within Gurney Green, the vibrant heart of Andaman’s evolving masterplan.

Developed by Persada Mentari Sdn Bhd, a member of Eastern & Oriental Berhad (E&O), AVÉA continues the legacy of curated waterfront placemaking that has defined Seri Tanjung Pinang and other iconic E&O developments. Rising as two elegant 51-storey towers freehold serviced residences, AVÉA is thoughtfully crafted for modern urban living by the marina’s edge.

Life Along the Promenade

At AVÉA, lifestyle begins just outside your door. A scenic waterfront promenade lined with retail boutiques, cafés and lifestyle offerings creates a dynamic yet relaxed environment where mornings may start with a jog by the sea, and evenings unfold over alfresco dining against a marina sunset.

Located within Gurney Green, AVÉA enjoys a lively setting where commercial energy and coastal tranquillity coexist seamlessly. As Andaman’s second marina-edge residence following the success of Maris, it offers residents immediate access to leisure, dining and recreation, transforming everyday routines into elevated experiences.

Andaman’s Largest Lifestyle Podium

Within the development, residents are welcomed by an extensive suite of facilities across multiple levels, including Andaman’s largest podium deck. Here, wellness and community come together in thoughtfully designed spaces such as:

• A 50-metre lap pool overlooking the sea
• Spa pool and family pool
• Meditation garden and deck
• Bio pond, maze garden and lush lawns
• Jogging track, basketball and badminton courts
• Event hall, games room and residents’ lounge

At the rooftop level, a garden sanctuary and fully equipped gym offer panoramic sea views, a daily reminder of the privilege of waterfront living.

Smart, Versatile Homes

AVÉA is conceived as a compact waterfront serviced residence that celebrates individuality and confidence. Units are designed to maximise natural light and cross ventilation, with private balconies framing inspiring views of Penang Island and the marina.

Five practical layouts are available, catering to singles, young professionals, couples and growing families:

• 1 Bedroom + Study (Type A: 678 sq ft/ Type B: 807 sq ft)
• 2 Bedrooms (Type C: 883 sq ft/ Type D: 936 sq ft)
• 3 Bedrooms (Type E: 1,076 sq ft)

Each home is fully furnished for a seamless move-in experience and comes with a private balcony. Premium fittings and finishes complement built-in kitchen cabinetry complete with appliances (fridge, microwave, built-in oven, hob and hood), air-conditioning units, wardrobes, washer dryer, digital door lock and quality sanitary fittings. Selected units come with two to three pre-allocated car parks, enhancing convenience in daily living.

An Investment in Enduring Value

With a gross development value of RM1 billion and a targeted completion in June 2030, AVÉA represents not just a home, but a long-term opportunity within Andaman’s transformative island vision. Supported by E&O’s 140-year heritage of excellence in lifestyle property development, buyers can be assured of quality, integrity and enduring value.

At AVÉA, horizons are not distant, they are part of everyday life. Whether you are stepping into your first home, expanding your investment portfolio, or simply seeking a refined address by the sea, AVÉA @ Andaman Island invites you to begin your next chapter where waterfront living feels both effortless and inspired.

For more information, please contact E&O at +6013-408 8999.