Band 7+: It is too expensive to look after and repair old buildings. This money should be spent on building modern building instead. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Some argue that repairing and maintaining old buildings is costly, so money is better spent on constructing new ones. While investing in new construction projects seems more appealing than taking care of old structures, I disagree that all funds should be redirected to new buildings.

Prioritizing the construction of new buildings can be justified on several grounds. The primary reason is their durability. As modern buildings are typically built from sturdy materials such reinforced concrete and steel, they are resistant to natural disasters including earthquakes and tsunamis. This is especially vital in coastal regions like Japan, which are seismically vulnerable. In such places, it is only sensible if government invests in new buildings rather than renovating old ones. Besides, improvements made to old buildings are short-lived. This is because renovation is typically superficial – in terms of plaster and paint – with no change to their fundamental structure. This means the building continues to wear out structurally, making renovation pointless.

I, however, hold the view that renovation of old buildings should not be overlooked. This is because old structures such as temples, mosques, museums, and even towers serve as important landmarks, holding considerable historical and cultural significance. When unattended, these places fall into state of disrepair and need to be eventually removed for public safety reasons. Demolition of such places would mean local heritage encompassed in them is lost. Aside from that, shift of focus from renovating old buildings to erecting new ones can create a public nuisance. Since new construction projects involve heavy-duty equipment and vehicles such as drills and trucks, noise and pollution are inevitable. Prolonged exposure to noise and pollution, in turn, compromises the life quality of local residents and construction workers alike.

In conclusion, though I admit building new buildings is a pragmatic option from a safety standpoint, I do not agree that it should happen at the expense of old buildings, for old buildings serve an important cultural purpose that justifies any renovation costs associated.