URA has launched a request for proposal (RFP) to invite multi-disciplinary teams in efforts to develop master plan proposals for the Jurong Lake District.
Lawrence Wong, Minister for National Development and Chairman of the Steering Committee, said, “We have an exceptional opportunity to transform Jurong Lake District into ‘A District of the Future’ and our second CBD, which will redefine the way we live, work and play.”
A key focus of this master planning exercise comprises developing proposals for Lakeside Gateway. Lakeside Gateway is a new mixed-use business precinct and home to the future terminus of the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail (HSR).
Lakeside Gateway will be a distinctive mixed-use business precinct and home to the HSR terminus.
“To be future-proof, a key feature of the Master Plan should be to encourage organic business growth with innovation and entrepreneurship as a main focus,” says Desmond Sim, head of CBRE Research for Singapore and South East Asia.
Christine Li, research director at Cushman & Wakefield reckons there could be institutions like an Airbnb or Facebook campuses in the future, given the proximity to tertiary institutions. Another business hotel could also be built, one with a convention centre given the convenience of its location to the HSR terminus. “Over the longer term, the diversity of commercial activities and housing options could underpin demand for residential housing markets,” she adds.
Map of Jurong Lake District and its 3 precincts
Jurong Lake District is a regional centre in the west, which was included as part of URA’s decentralisation efforts to create new commercial activities, more jobs, amenities, and recreational options closer to homes. The blueprint of the district comprising a commercial hub, Jurong Gateway and a leisure precinct, Lakeside, was first unveiled in the URA Master Plan 2008.
Interested teams are required to submit their interest to participate in the RFP by September 5. Five shortlisted teams will develop their Concept Master Plans for Jurong Lake District and make their submissions by December 7. The team with the best Concept Master Plan will be appointed in February 2017 and work with URA as well as partner agencies to draw up the Draft Master Plan for the District.