{
  "id": 624745,
  "title": "New orchid park, family-friendly facilities proposed as part of expanded Istana Park",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/12/new-orchid-park-family-friendly-facilities-proposed-as-part-of",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-12T03:00:29.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "CNA - Singapore",
    "slug": "cna-singapore",
    "url": "https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/istana-park-orchard-road-dhoby-ghaut-orchid-plaza-6313491"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The National Parks Board (NParks) is exploring plans for an expanded Istana Park, incorporating a range of new features to enhance the park's allure and functionality. Proposed elements include an elevated link bridge connecting Dhoby Ghaut Green to Fort Canning Park, a ceremonial drive leading to the Istana, and indoor attractions such as galleries showcasing Singapore's multicultural heritage. A nature playgarden for children is also on the table, along with a garden honoring Singapore women. The expanded Istana Park would more than triple its current size by merging with the existing Dhoby Ghaut Green and Penang Road Open Space, as well as a stretch of Orchard Road. The park would serve as the green heart of the rejuvenated Orchard Road, offering a greener, more vibrant, and family-friendly environment.",
  "summary": "The National Parks Board is studying the feasibility of an elevated link bridge connecting Dhoby Ghaut Green – which will be merged with the current Istana Park – to Fort Canning Park.",
  "key_points": [
    "Expanded Istana Park to triple in size by merging with Dhoby Ghaut Green and Penang Road Open Space.",
    "Proposed family-friendly features: elevated link bridge, ceremonial drive, indoor galleries.",
    "Nature playgarden and garden honoring Singapore women planned for the new Istana Park."
  ],
  "editors_take": "The expanded Istana Park would transform Orchard Road into a greener, more vibrant area, offering enhanced recreational spaces and attractions for families, and solidifying the park's role as a community hub.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Channel News Asia",
        "title": "New orchid park, family-friendly facilities proposed as part of expanded Istana Park",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/12/new-orchid-park-family-friendly-facilities-proposed-as-part-of-625722",
        "published": "2026-08-12T03:00:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}