Post by : Badri Ariffin

Singapore’s Istana Park is set for a major transformation, with plans for an expanded green space featuring an orchid park and plaza, a nature playgarden, new pocket parks and other family-friendly attractions.

The National Parks Board (NParks) unveiled the proposals on Wednesday (Aug 12) as part of plans to rejuvenate the Dhoby Ghaut sub-precinct and strengthen its connection with the wider Orchard Road area.

Minister of State for National Development Alvin Tan said the rejuvenated Istana Park would form the green centre of a refreshed Orchard Road.

“This area will be the green heart of our rejuvenated Orchard Road – greener, more vibrant and more welcoming for families,” he said.

The new park will be more than three times the size of the existing Istana Park. It will be created by combining Istana Park with Dhoby Ghaut Green, Penang Road Open Space and the 500m stretch of Orchard Road between Buyong Road and Handy Road.

Orchid Park and Orchid Plaza proposed

One of the key features being studied is an Orchid Park and Orchid Plaza designed to showcase the variety of Singapore’s native orchids.

NParks said the spaces could highlight orchids growing across different habitats, including trees and wetlands.

The agency is also studying nature-based features to improve biodiversity and resilience. These could include multi-functional water gardens to manage stormwater runoff and ecoactive totems designed to support biodiversity within the park.

New ceremonial driveway planned for Istana entrance

The redesigned park will continue to serve as the ceremonial gateway to the Istana.

NParks is exploring a pedestrianised section of Orchard Road that could become a new ceremonial driveway leading directly to the Istana’s main entrance.

The proposed driveway could be lined with flagpoles and mature trees. It may replace the existing festive arch at Istana Park.

The plans could also include indoor attractions such as galleries. These spaces would potentially showcase Singapore’s multicultural heritage while adding to the horticultural experience for visitors.

Nature playgarden planned at Dhoby Ghaut Green

Dhoby Ghaut Green could receive a new nature playgarden, offering open recreational areas where children and families can spend time in a natural setting.

NParks said the proposed playgarden could support children’s mental well-being while providing physical, mental and emotional benefits.

The redevelopment would also turn the existing Orchard Road stretch between Buyong Road and Handy Road into a pedestrianised activity promenade.

The flexible space could be used for outdoor art activities, public performances, street markets and civic festivals.

Garden to honour Singapore women

A garden celebrating Singapore women is also proposed at Dhoby Ghaut Green.

The idea was first put forward in the White Paper on Singapore Women’s Development in 2022.

NParks said the proposed garden would recognise the pioneering spirit and contributions of Singapore women. Details of the garden remain subject to further study.

New pocket parks at Handy Road and Somerset

NParks is also studying two pocket parks, one at Handy Road and another at Somerset.

The proposed spaces are intended to provide additional areas for people to rest along the Orchard Road retail belt.

They are expected to include shaded areas and family-friendly spaces that can be enjoyed by visitors of different ages.

The pedestrianisation of Orchard Road would also connect Dhoby Ghaut Green more closely with Istana Park, Plaza Singapura, MacDonald House and Temasek Shophouse.

Possible elevated link to Fort Canning Park

NParks is studying the feasibility of an elevated link bridge between Dhoby Ghaut Green and Fort Canning Park.

The proposed connection could improve access between attractions in the surrounding area.

The wider redevelopment is intended to improve links between the rejuvenated park and nearby commercial developments within the Dhoby Ghaut sub-precinct.

Orchard Road rejuvenation plans

The latest proposals are part of Singapore’s broader efforts to refresh Orchard Road.

The Orchard Road Rejuvenation Project was unveiled in 2019 by NParks, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA).

Plans were developed after a public exhibition and consultation exercise that received feedback from more than 1,500 members of the public. Many respondents called for additional green spaces and family-friendly facilities along Orchard Road.

In May, STB announced that it would begin a new Orchard Road Rejuvenation Initiative from the middle of the year. The initiative invites stakeholders to submit proposals covering facade improvements, experiential concepts and night-time activities.

More design details expected next year

Alvin Tan said the detailed designs for the rejuvenated area would continue to be developed over the coming year.

“Over the coming year, we will refine many of these detailed designs, going beyond some of these ideas that I’ve outlined today, and then share the full vision next year,” he said.

NParks said further information on the timeline for the Istana Park and Dhoby Ghaut developments would be released when available.

Traffic impact assessed by LTA

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) said a transport impact assessment had been carried out by the relevant agencies, including NParks, URA and STB.

The assessment examined how the proposed rejuvenation could affect the surrounding road network and traffic movements.

According to an LTA spokesperson, motorists using Orchard Road can expect broadly similar travel conditions, although traffic is expected to be heavier during peak periods.

LTA said it would continue monitoring traffic conditions as the redevelopment progresses and coordinate with the relevant agencies on any adjustments that may be needed.

#Global News #Singapore News #Global Updates #World News