- CDL unveils Union Square, a landmark mixed-use development in Singapore River area.
- Project is first under URA’s Strategic Development Incentive Scheme.
- Union Square to feature office tower, retail spaces, and luxury residences.
A new iconic development is set to transform Singapore’s riverside, blending modern amenities with historical charm.
Key Terms Simplified
- Mixed-use development is a building that has different uses, like shops, offices, and homes.
- Strategic Development Incentive (SDI) Scheme is a plan to make old areas in Singapore look new and better.
- Gross Floor Area (GFA) is the total floor space in a building, including all levels.
CDL’s Union Square: A New Landmark in Singapore
On 11 Oct 2024, City Developments Limited (CDL) showed off plans for Union Square.
This big project will change the look of the Singapore River area.
It’s the first project under a special plan (SDI Scheme) by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA).
This plan aims to make old areas look new and better.
According to CDL, it will be about 735,500 sq ft in size.
This is 67% bigger than what was there before.
Prime Location and Features
This development will be on Havelock Road, near the Central Business District (CBD).
It’s close to three MRT stations: Clarke Quay, Chinatown, and Fort Canning.
This makes it easy for people to get there.
The project will have many parts:
- A big office tower
- Shops and restaurants
- A place for people to live and share spaces
- 366 fancy homes
Mr Sherman Kwek, the Group CEO of CDL, said, “Union Square underscores our commitment to master planning and placemaking.”
This shows how important the project is for making the area better.
Design and Facilities
Two well-known design companies, Aedas and ADDP, will work on this project.
The homes, called Union Square Residences, will have nice things like:
- Two swimming pools
- Clubhouses
- A gym high up in the building on Level 34
These fancy homes might make property prices in the area go up.
Preserving History and Culture
The place where UnionSquare will be has a long history.
It includes old buildings like the Omar Kampong Melaka Mosque from the 1820s.
There’s also the Tan Si Chong Su temple from the 1870s, which is very important.
To keep the area’s old charm, the development will have:
| Feature | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Amphitheatre | For public shows, like old-style street opera |
| Outdoor spaces | For community events like food trucks and outdoor shows |
| Central plaza | To help people in the community meet and do things together |
Impact on the Community
CDL says, “UnionSquare will both enliven and enhance the vibrancy of the Singapore River precinct.”
This means it will make the area more lively and interesting.
The project aims to finish in 2029.
It will change the area into a busy place for living, working, and having fun.
Environmental Concerns
The project aims to be good for the environment too.
It’s trying to get a special Green Mark Platinum Super Low Energy certificate.
This shows it will use less energy and be better for the planet.
Do you think big projects like Union Square are good for Singapore?
