Downtown Core URA Master Plan

Under the URA Master Plan 2019, the Downtown Core is one of Singapore’s most significant urban areas targeted for transformation. As the historical heart of Singapore’s financial and commercial activities, the Downtown Core encompasses prominent districts such as the Central Business District (CBD), Marina Bay, Raffles Place, and Shenton Way. The Master Plan aims to rejuvenate this area to not only strengthen its economic role but also to create a more dynamic, liveable, and inclusive environment. The strategy revolves around encouraging a shift from a work-centric district to a vibrant, mixed-use precinct that offers a seamless integration of business, living, and recreation.

One of the key initiatives under the URA Master Plan 2019 for the Downtown Core is the CBD Incentive Scheme. This scheme encourages the redevelopment of older office buildings into mixed-use developments, fostering a more diverse and balanced range of activities. Instead of primarily serving office workers, the goal is to attract a residential population, creating an “18-hour” district where people can live, work, and play. The development of more residential units, hotels, retail outlets, and recreational spaces will make the Downtown Core more vibrant outside of office hours, driving round-the-clock activity and reducing peak-hour congestion.

Marina Bay, a key component of the Downtown Core, continues to evolve into a global business and lifestyle hub. Marina Bay’s development plan includes the introduction of more green spaces, public parks, and recreational amenities, making it a waterfront destination for residents, professionals, and tourists. Projects such as the Marina Barrage and the expansion of Gardens by the Bay are examples of how Marina Bay is being enhanced to integrate leisure and lifestyle elements with the area’s commercial significance.

The Raffles Place and Shenton Way districts are also undergoing significant changes to support a more integrated urban environment. As part of the Master Plan, these districts will see improvements in connectivity with the construction of new MRT stations and pedestrian-friendly walkways, encouraging a shift towards car-lite living. The upcoming Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) and Downtown Line (DTL) will further enhance accessibility, making commuting in and out of the Downtown Core more convenient and efficient for both residents and professionals.

To encourage sustainable living, the Master Plan also emphasizes the creation of green spaces and community-friendly areas within the Downtown Core. The development of parks, green connectors, and cycling paths will not only enhance the area’s livability but also support Singapore’s broader goal of becoming a greener, more sustainable city. For instance, areas around Marina Bay, Singapore River, and Raffles Place will be enhanced with public spaces and park connectors, encouraging active lifestyles and improving the quality of urban living.

Heritage and culture are also being woven into the development plans for the Downtown Core. The Master Plan includes efforts to preserve key cultural landmarks and historical sites within the district. This ensures that the modernization of the Downtown Core does not come at the expense of its rich historical heritage, with districts like Chinatown and the Civic District being carefully integrated into new development plans. This balance of modern growth and heritage preservation ensures the area remains culturally significant while evolving as a global hub.

In summary, under the URA Master Plan 2019, the Downtown Core is poised for a comprehensive transformation into a thriving, mixed-use area that balances economic growth with improved livability and sustainability. The emphasis on introducing more residential options, enhancing green spaces, and improving connectivity reflects a forward-thinking approach to urban planning, ensuring that the Downtown Core remains a vibrant and essential part of Singapore’s future development.

The Collective at One Sophia is just a mere 2km away from Downtown Core area, the project is expected to benefits from this future development.

Source: URA