New park in Orchard Road to combine Istana Park, Dhoby Ghaut Green and Penang Road Open Space
The amalgamated park will be more than thrice the size of existing 1.3ha Istana Park.
The Penang Road open space, situated at the junction of Orchard and Oxley roads, is set to be transformed into an Orchid Park as part of plans to revamp the Dhoby Ghaut area. This new park will incorporate the existing open space, Istana Park, Dhoby Ghaut Green, and a 500-meter-long pedestrianised section of Orchard Road.
Minister of State for National Development Alvin Tan announced these plans at an event to inform building owners and tenants about the area's future developments. The Orchid Park will feature a diverse range of orchids, representing various habitats and environments, showcasing their adaptability. NParks is also exploring the use of nature-based solutions, like multi-functional water gardens to manage stormwater runoff, and wildlife habitats resembling totem poles.
The rejuvenated area will consist of three sections: the Orchid Park and Orchid Plaza, Istana Park, and Dhoby Ghaut Green. For the renovated Istana Park, NParks plans to construct a new ceremonial driveway flanked by flagpoles and mature trees, potentially replacing the existing Festive Arch. The board also envisions indoor attractions, such as galleries showcasing Singapore's multicultural heritage and horticultural experiences.
Dhoby Ghaut Green will be pedestrianised, transforming the area into a fresh green space linked to Istana Park, Plaza Singapura, MacDonald House, and Temasek Shophouse. This pedestrianised stretch can be converted into an Activity Promenade, a flexible multi-functional space for rest, recreation, and civic events. Dhoby Ghaut Green will also feature a garden celebrating the contributions of Singapore women, aimed at inspiring active community participation.
Tan emphasized that the government's efforts to transform and plan the area require the active involvement of businesses, developers, and residents, hoping the plans will inspire ideas and encourage bold reimagination of Orchard Road. Orchard Road Business Association chairman Mark Shaw reported general support for the rejuvenated green spaces and pocket parks, acknowledging the potential to enhance the area's vibrancy and connectivity.
Chai Karim, principal of Karim Family Foundation, expressed interest in how the redevelopment plan will incorporate nearby heritage sites, such as the House of Tan Yeok Nee.
Written by urgent.news from Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
