Paya Lebar Air Base

The transformation of the Paya Lebar Airbase is one of Singapore’s most ambitious urban redevelopment projects, aimed at converting the former military airbase into a thriving, sustainable, and livable new town. The relocation of the Paya Lebar Airbase, which is expected to be completed in the 2030s, opens up a vast area for redevelopment, offering a unique opportunity to create a new residential, commercial, and industrial hub while preserving the site’s historical significance.

1. New Town Development:

• Vast Land Area: The Paya Lebar Airbase covers approximately 800 hectares, which is about five times the size of Toa Payoh. This extensive area will be transformed into a new town that could house more than 150,000 new homes. The new town will offer a mix of public and private housing, catering to diverse population groups and contributing to Singapore’s goal of providing affordable and high-quality living environments.
• Mixed-Use Precincts: The redevelopment plan includes the creation of mixed-use precincts that will integrate residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. These precincts are designed to provide residents with easy access to jobs, amenities, and recreational facilities, reducing the need for long commutes and supporting a more sustainable lifestyle.

2. Sustainability and Green Living:

• Green Spaces and Blue Networks: A significant portion of the airbase’s vast area will be dedicated to green spaces and blue networks. The plan includes large parks, community gardens, and recreational spaces that will enhance the town’s livability and provide residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The inclusion of water bodies, such as lakes and canals, will create a cooler microclimate and add to the aesthetic appeal of the town.
• Sustainable Urban Design: The new town will be designed with sustainability at its core. Buildings will incorporate green technologies, such as energy-efficient systems, solar panels, and rainwater harvesting. The town’s layout will also prioritize walking, cycling, and public transport, promoting a car-lite environment that reduces carbon emissions and enhances air quality.

3. Preservation of Heritage and Aviation Legacy:

• Runway Preservation: One of the unique features of the Paya Lebar Airbase transformation is the plan to preserve parts of the existing runway. The long, linear runway will be repurposed into a central spine for the new town, possibly serving as a green corridor or a pedestrian and cycling thoroughfare. This not only pays homage to the site’s aviation history but also provides a distinctive character to the new town.
• Heritage Conservation: The redevelopment will also focus on preserving and integrating existing structures of historical significance. Hangars, control towers, and other aviation-related buildings could be repurposed into community spaces, museums, or commercial facilities, maintaining a link to the past while serving the needs of the future community.

4. Transport and Connectivity:

• Enhanced Public Transport: The new town will be well-connected to the rest of Singapore through an enhanced public transport network. The future Cross Island Line and other MRT lines will provide convenient access to the new town, ensuring that residents can travel efficiently across the island. Additionally, new roads and expressways may be developed to support the increased population and economic activities in the area.
• Pedestrian and Cycling Infrastructure: To encourage active mobility, the town will feature extensive pedestrian and cycling paths. These paths will connect residential areas to key amenities, green spaces, and public transport nodes, making it easy for residents to move around without relying on private vehicles.

5. Economic Opportunities and Job Creation:

• Commercial and Industrial Hubs: The redevelopment plan includes the creation of commercial and industrial hubs within the new town. These hubs will be designed to attract businesses in sectors such as technology, innovation, and high-value manufacturing, creating job opportunities for residents and supporting Singapore’s economic growth. The integration of these hubs within the town will reduce the need for residents to commute long distances for work.
• Retail and Lifestyle Amenities: In addition to business opportunities, the town will feature a range of retail and lifestyle amenities. Shopping malls, dining establishments, entertainment venues, and community centers will be developed to meet the needs of residents and create a vibrant urban environment.

6. Community and Social Infrastructure:

• Education and Healthcare: The new town will be equipped with a full range of educational institutions, from preschools to secondary schools, and possibly tertiary institutions. These facilities will be integrated into the community, ensuring that residents have easy access to quality education. Healthcare facilities, including polyclinics and hospitals, will also be developed to meet the medical needs of the growing population.
• Community Spaces: The redevelopment will prioritize the creation of community spaces where residents can gather, interact, and engage in social activities. Community clubs, sports complexes, and cultural centers will be developed to foster a sense of belonging and enhance the social fabric of the town.

7. Innovation and Smart City Features:

• Smart Technologies: The Paya Lebar Airbase transformation is an opportunity to integrate smart city technologies into the new town’s infrastructure. This could include the use of smart grids, intelligent traffic management systems, and data-driven urban planning tools to optimize resource use and enhance the quality of life for residents.
• Future-Ready Urban Design: The town will be designed to be adaptable to future trends and challenges, such as climate change and evolving economic conditions. The integration of flexible spaces, modular buildings, and resilient infrastructure will ensure that the town remains relevant and sustainable for decades to come.

Conclusion:

The transformation of the Paya Lebar Airbase is set to be a landmark project that will reshape Singapore’s urban landscape. By creating a new, sustainable town that integrates residential, commercial, and industrial uses while preserving its aviation heritage, the redevelopment will provide a high-quality living environment for future generations. The Paya Lebar Airbase transformation reflects Singapore’s commitment to thoughtful urban planning, sustainability, and innovation, ensuring that the area will contribute positively to the nation’s growth and development for years to come.

The Continuum

Source: URA