Homes in more central areas, coastal protection among URA proposals for 2025 Draft Masterplan

The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has unveiled several proposals for its upcoming 2025 Draft Masterplan, which will guide Singapore’s land use and development plans for the next 10 to 15 years. Among the key proposals are:

1. Centralized Housing: Plans include the development of a diverse mix of public and private housing in more central locations, including the city area, the former Keppel Club site within the Greater Southern Waterfront, and Turf City in Bukit Timah.
2. Recreational Masterplan: The URA aims to create a recreational masterplan to establish accessible recreational spaces and facilities for the public. This initiative aligns with the goal of promoting active lifestyles and enabling aging in place. It falls under the “Shape a Happy, Healthy City” theme.
3. Strengthening Urban Resilience: Measures to combat the urban heat island effect in densely populated areas are under development, with more details to be shared in 2023. Coastal protection measures to address rising sea levels are also being studied.
4. Optimizing Underground Spaces: URA will continue to plan for and utilize underground spaces for infrastructure and utilities to maximize land use above ground for housing, parks, and amenities.
5. Sustainable Growth: Plans include establishing commercial nodes to bring job opportunities and amenities closer to residential areas. The focus will be on developing the Jurong Lake District and progressively transforming Bishan into a commercial and community hub.
6. Nature and Heritage: Stakeholder engagement will refine themes highlighting Singapore’s development through its built heritage, including historic buildings and landmarks. Enhancements to recreational spaces along the Kallang River and the Rail Corridor are also on the agenda.

Additionally, a competition to gather ideas for the revitalization of the Tanjong Pagar Railway Station is scheduled for mid-2024.

National Development Minister Desmond Lee emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to create the Draft Masterplan 2025 and acknowledged the sacrifices and foresight of those who contributed to Singapore’s development. He highlighted that good planning has led to the comfortable living conditions enjoyed today, and these proposals aim to provide even more choices for future generations.

Residents, like Lim Mei Choo, expressed their support for the proposals, particularly those related to housing and urban resilience, believing they would benefit younger Singaporeans. Sujatha Paramathayalan, head of the English department at St Andrew’s Secondary School, highlighted the opportunity for students to participate in shaping the spaces meant for them through the public consultation process.

For those interested in participating in engagement activities related to the Draft Masterplan 2025, more information is available at www.go.gov.sg/URADraftMasterPlan.