Observer: Ancol Reclamation Must Comply with Spatial Planning and Urgently Include Integrated Public LRT Access
Urban planning observer Yayat Supriatna of Trisakti University considers the planned 65-hectare expansion of the Ancol reclamation area acceptable as a means of restoring Ancol’s standing as Jakarta’s leading tourism destination. However, he stressed that the legality of its spatial planning and integrated public transport access must be settled first.
Yayat emphasised that the key to the project’s sustainability lies in legal certainty and compliance with the Jakarta 2024 Regional Spatial Plan (RTRW), which serves as the fundamental basis for permitting.
In his view, the coastal area (waterfront city) is the only potential zone in Jakarta that can be developed to its fullest extent without being hindered by land acquisition problems.
“If there are no violations or deviations in spatial planning terms, then it can proceed. What matters is that it is clear and clean in spatial terms,” Yayat said when contacted by Media Indonesia on Tuesday (8/9).
He further views the Ancol expansion as a strategic step to restore the area’s glory, as in the 1970s and 1980s, while competing with other modern districts such as PIK.
According to him, Ancol’s potential is now stronger because it can adopt a multi-activity approach directly connected to the Jakarta International Stadium (JIS), spanning sport, recreation and the MICE industry (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions). Yayat cautioned, however, that the area could face severe congestion if it relies solely on existing road access.
He urged the DKI provincial government to ensure the reclamation development is matched by accelerated construction of the Kelapa Gading–Ancol LRT route, connected onwards to PIK. “If it becomes a venue for major events but the roads remain the same, there will be congestion. People thinking of going to Ancol without driving a car can take the LRT. This could be an attraction in itself, with people reaching the location without private vehicles,” he asserted.