Singapore’s urban planners are working on transforming two key locations in the heart of the city into vibrant lifestyle destinations, providing more recreational and leisure spaces for residents and visitors alike. These areas include the former Singapore Chinese Girls’ School (SCGS) campus at Emerald Hill Road and a large 18-hectare plot around Marina One, near the Marina Bay MRT station.
The former SCGS campus, with its charming historic buildings, is poised to become a lively hub offering restaurants, retail, arts, and cultural experiences, with potential accommodations as well. Nestled near popular spots like The Heeren and Design Orchard, the site will blend heritage and modern lifestyle in one of Singapore’s prime areas. SCGS alumna Daphne Yuan expressed her excitement that the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has taken suggestions to make the space accessible to the public, creating a unique experience that complements the Orchard Road precinct. The conserved campus, with its open spaces such as the former school field and basketball court, promises to add to the allure of the area.
Similarly, Marina Bay is set to welcome a variety of recreational activities in the near future. The vacant land surrounding Marina One, just above Marina Bay MRT, offers exciting possibilities for community use before long-term development takes place. With attractions like container parks, outdoor cinemas, and rock climbing facilities being explored, the area could evolve into a vibrant spot for sports, pop-up markets, and dining options.
This interim use of prime land not only enhances leisure options, especially during weekends, but also optimizes valuable space before it’s fully developed. Marina Bay’s growing appeal with new residential projects like Marina View Residences and Newport Residences nearby further reinforces the area’s reputation as a sought-after location.
Incorporating public feedback is part of the URA’s ongoing Recreation Master Plan, which aims to create dynamic spaces in the central areas of Singapore. These plans follow similar successful developments, such as the revitalized New Bahru at the former Nan Chiau High School campus, which has become a trendy hotspot for shops, restaurants, and serviced apartments.
With these new developments in the works, Singapore’s city center is set to become an even more exciting and diverse destination, blending heritage with modernity and catering to both locals and tourists alike. Public input is encouraged, as these projects continue to shape the future of the central area.
Feedback on the proposed plans for 37 Emerald Hill Road and Marina Bay can be submitted online, with the exhibition running until September 30.