Central Area URA Master Plan

The URA (Urban Redevelopment Authority) Master Plan 2019 for Singapore’s Central Area focuses on transforming the city into a vibrant and sustainable hub, with an emphasis on creating a more livable, dynamic, and accessible urban environment. As the heart of Singapore’s economy, the Central Area will continue to evolve with new developments and enhancements across key precincts, aiming to cater to future growth while preserving cultural and heritage elements.

Here are some key highlights of the Central Area’s URA Master Plan 2019:

1. Greater Connectivity and Liveability
– Car-lite strategies: With the goal of making Singapore more sustainable, the plan encourages car-lite initiatives with enhanced public transport and pedestrian connectivity. More MRT lines, such as the Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) and Cross Island Line (CRL), are planned to improve access to and within the Central Area.
– Pedestrian-friendly spaces: The creation of more walking and cycling paths aims to make the city more pedestrian-friendly. Areas like the Marina Bay and Orchard precincts will be further enhanced with new public spaces, reducing car reliance and improving the overall quality of urban living.

 2. Mixed-Use Developments
– The URA Master Plan encourages integrated and mixed-use developments, providing a blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces in key areas like Marina Bay, Tanjong Pagar, and Orchard Road. These developments will enhance convenience for residents, reduce travel times, and promote a live-work-play environment.

3. Revitalizing the Orchard Road Precinct
– Orchard Road, a renowned shopping district, is set to undergo a significant transformation. The plan aims to diversify its attractions with new lifestyle offerings, art installations, and entertainment spaces. Different zones along the street will have distinct identities, such as Tanglin as a green lifestyle zone, and Somerset as a youth-focused space.

4. Heritage and Green Spaces
– The Central Area will balance modern development with heritage conservation. Historic districts like Chinatown, Kampong Glam, and Little India will retain their cultural significance, while being enhanced with improved amenities.
– Greenery expansion is also a focal point, with the creation of new parks and green links to existing ones. Projects like the Green Corridor, connecting Marina Bay to Fort Canning and Pearl’s Hill, will allow residents and visitors to enjoy nature amidst the urban landscape.

5. Marina Bay and Beyond
– The Marina Bay area, already a focal point of urban development, will see continued growth with new mixed-use developments. As part of the Marina South precinct, future developments will feature residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.
– Beyond Marina Bay, Greater Southern Waterfront is a major part of the master plan, which extends the city’s core further south. This new waterfront district will include residential, commercial, and leisure facilities, creating a new coastal living experience.

6. Tanjong Pagar and Outram Growth
– Tanjong Pagar and Outram will experience urban rejuvenation with more housing options and mixed-use developments. With their strategic locations near the CBD, these areas will have a blend of heritage conservation and new developments to ensure their continued vibrancy.

The 2019 URA Master Plan for the Central Area reflects Singapore’s commitment to sustainable urban development, enhancing connectivity, livability, and economic vitality while preserving its heritage.

Union Square Residences will benefits from the series of future development within Central Area.

Source: URA