Government Land Sales Gears Up for Next Year
With the scarcity of available plots taking center stage, the government is eyeing a fresh batch of land sales for the coming year. Developers are still battling a lean inventory, and on the horizon is the looming specter of steeper home prices.
Three Hotspots Set for Residential Development
- Orto Leisure Park – Once a beloved community hub, this site is slated to be repurposed into lively housing, adding a touch of charm to the new neighborhood.
- Additional site #2 – details are still coming, but experts predict a vibrant mix of apartments and green spaces.
- Additional site #3 – slated for mixed‑use development, potentially boosting local commerce and living standards.
Stay tuned for more updates as the land clearance process kicks off – it promises to reshape the skyline and bring fresh opportunities for everyone.
What are the three new land sites?
Unlock the Hidden Corners of Singapore
1. Orto Leisure Park
Imagine stepping into a lush park that feels like a secret garden you accidentally discovered while wandering the streets of Singapore. Orto Leisure Park offers a mix of greenery, vibrant flower displays and a few water features that refresh your spirit.
2. Jalan Tiga Ratus (the former Changkat Changi Primary & Secondary)
- Former Playground turned bustling community hub.
- Old school walls still echo soft footsteps of past students—now replaced by lively cafés, ice‑cream stalls and street performers.
- Best spot for a casual stroll or a quick snack.
3. Teban Gardens (ex Pandan Primary)
- What once was a typical primary school grounds has become a go‑to picnic spot.
- Children can run freely on the grass, while adults sip local brews—an ideal blend of relaxation and nostalgia.
- Boardwalks here give you a panoramic view of the surrounding waterways, perfect for a sunset selfie.
Whether you’re a city explorer or simply craving a bittersweet reminder of Singapore’s past, these three sites line up perfectly for a day full of surprises, laughter and a touch of history. Good luck and enjoy the adventure!
1. Orto Leisure Park
So Long, Orto Leisure Park!
It’s a real bummer to see the Orto Leisure Park close its gates. This vibrant spot was one of those lively hubs that added a splash of colour to Yishun. If you’re still wondering what went on, let’s take a quick stroll through its legacy.
What Made Orto Special?
- 24-Hour Fun – Ever wanted a night out that never stops? Orto was Singapore’s first and only round-the-clock leisure park.
- Community Vibe – From morning joggers to late‑night diners, it was a place for every kind of soul.
- Iconic Spots – Think neon arcade lights, the loudest karaoke rooms, and the best late‑night hawker stalls.
A Bit of History
When Orto first opened its doors, it promised an endless party in the heart of Yishun. People could come any time of day or night to enjoy the rave atmosphere, thrilling game rooms, and, let’s be honest, a place to brag about your midnight all‑night snack haul.
Why the Closure?
- Urban Reshaping – The city’s plan to redevelop the area for new housing and public amenities required a new layout.
- Shifting Culture – As preferences moved toward quieter, more sustainable leisure options, the demand for a 24‑hour club waned.
What Can You Do Now?
Don’t let the spirit of Orto fade! The vibe can still be felt in the community spirit, the camaraderie, and those unforgettable karaoke nights. Keep the memories alive by:
- Photo‑snapping the old neon marquee – they’re still a hot spot for Instagram.
- Reaching out to former staff at the local cafés for a nostalgic chat.
- Joining online forums where Orto fans keep the conversation lively.
So, even though the gates may be closed, the laughter and the late‑night laughter echo through Yishun’s streets. Orto may have gone, but the fun lives on!
Orto Park: Yishun’s Hidden Oasis
24/7 Delight for All Ages
When Orto opened its gates in 2014, Yishun’s locals hit the jackpot. The park runs around the clock and offers everything from supper spots to a trampoline park, prawning, fishing, and even a live turtle museum.
A Gap in the Neighborhood
In the Khatib area, facilities are choked—there’s not much to do. Residents had almost nothing but Orto to turn to. It isn’t just about Yishun dwellers; family-friendly recreational spaces are scarce across Singapore, and Orto brings the much-needed variety.
What’s Missing Elsewhere?
You’d think a place like Yishun would have plenty of housing options, so why isn’t it built around something larger, like the 107‑ha Orchid Country Club? Golf courses usually serve fewer folks than a vibrant park such as Orto, yet that was the plan.
Lease Linger and Confusion
Surprisingly, Orchid Country Club’s lease got extended all the way to 2030—though it’s likely it will stop stretching after that. Meanwhile, Orto, originally slated for a December shut‑down, got delayed by the agency to August 30, 2023.
Let’s hope the park stays open—because without it, Yishun’s residents are staring at an empty playground.
What the Developers Should Keep in Mind
Plot Size & Unknown Split
Imagine a chunk of land that’s roughly 5.14 hectares—that’s about the size of 70 football pitches! The catch? We’ve got no idea how much of that is reserved for homes versus other stuff.
Location Highlights
- Khatib MRT – The North‑South line is just a brisk walk away, roughly a 10‑minute stroll.
- Panoramic Views – You can spot Lower Seletar Reservoir Park and the snazzy Estuary condo right from the site.
- Sports Vibes – Yishun Sports Hall & Stadium are practically next door, gated across Yishun Avenue 2.
Why Pure Residential Might Be a Bad Idea
Say we go all in on houses only and leave everyone else at home. That would be a bit unfair – imagine local residents losing a major community hub just because the developers missed the chance to add some retail or lifestyle flair.
So, a mixed‑use angle could bring real value: think cafés, boutique shops, or even a small entertainment spot that keeps the vibe lively.
What’s Nearby Right Now?
- A Sheng Siong shop at Block 845 Yishun.
- Two big supermarkets – Giant and NTUC FairPrice – parked at Khatib Central.
- The Wisteria mixed‑use complex includes a mall, but you’ll need about 8 minutes by car to make the trip.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking to turn this 5.14‑hectare plot into something that feels like home and community, mixing in some retail or lifestyle touches could make all the difference. Plus, it’s already blessed with a station, parks, and sports facilities—just a matter of how you stack the pieces.
2. Jalan Tiga Ratus
Meet the 2.8‑Hectare Gem on the Dockside of a Luxury Lane
Picture this: a modest 2.8‑hectare piece of land bursting with potential, situated directly opposite a sprawling landed enclave. It’s the kind of spot where every homeowner would be thinking, “Who’s going to pop up next to our vibe?”
Who’s Got the Frown?
The current owners are not exactly peach‑happy about the prospect of HDB blocks sprouting up right next door. Let’s just say they’re a little nervous about the change in ambiance and the potential shift in neighborhood dynamics.
URA’s Bold Vision
Despite the uneasy feeling, URA has a clear goal in mind: boosting social mixing. They want the private homes in this 2.8‑hectare plot to mix more seamlessly with the public sector. A little cross‑community mingling never hurt anyone!
- Private homes are the majority, but they’re ready for new neighbors.
- Social mixing is the name of the game.
- URA’s plan is to create an inclusive, buzzing neighborhood.
The Takeaway
In a nutshell, the 2.8‑hectare site sits on the threshold of a landed oasis. Owners are a tad uneasy, but URA’s in the mix, aiming to turn the space into a lively social hub where private residences and HDB blocks can get along, making the area more vibrant than ever.
Upper Changi: Where Landlords Meet Lofty Dreams
Picture this: a strip of streets where landlords have been ruling the roost for SUDT students, airport crew, and the snazzy SIA Training Centre. Now that’s a monopoly that’s been running smoother than your favorite espresso machine at the corner café.
The area, once earmarked for schools back in the 2019 Master Plan, spun the wheel at the URA exhibition in June and landed a new fate: public housing and amenities—a makeover that could bring in some serious lifestyle upgrades.
Why Up Mid‑Central Might Be Your Next Home
- Commuter Heaven – Just a stroll to Upper Changi MRT on the Downtown Line. No more dealing with congested buses that feel like a traffic jam in a traffic jam.
- Neighborhood Vibes – The houses near the junction of Jalan Tiga Ratus and Upper Changi Road East will be within a friendly walking distance to whatever you need.
- Affordable Flexibility – HDB flats could turn into an accessible alternative for tenants, especially if you’re planning your long‑term future. Imagine being able to say, “Boom, I found a cheaper place!” without breaking the bank.
Convenience: A Missing Piece in the Urban Puzzle
One major snag? The area’s lack of daily conveniences. But guess what? Once the HDB project takes off, you’ll almost automatically find:
- Coffee shops buzzing with the aroma of freshly ground beans.
- Mini‑Mart shelves buzzing with snacks that scream “grab & go.”
- Other daily staples that turn a plain neighborhood into a “home” where you can buzz around in comfort.
The Great Singapore Expo Debate
While some folks think the Singapore Expo is just “a little extra” and others swear by it, there are genuine feelings on both sides:
- Love It? The Expo’s proximity means you could find yourself in the middle of tech conferences and industry expos right off the corner. Imagine the bragging rights, “I live next to the PC Expo!”
- Not the Fan? Others see it as a by‑product that is just “not that necessary.” They prefer a quieter, less event‑heavy lifestyle.
Bottom line: If you’re someone who gets a thrill from tech conventions, living in Upper Changi will perk your day! If not, you still get the perks of newly minted conveniences and a potentially cheaper place to call home.
3. Teban Gardens
Abandoned Field: A Hidden Gem in Teban Gardens
What’s Up with the 1.8‑Hectare Patch?
In the heart of Teban Gardens there’s a 1.8‑hectare slice of land that’s been sitting empty for ages. Residents will recognize it as the “big grass field” that sits right where West Coast Road meets Jurong Town Hall Road—opposite Commonwealth Secondary School.
It’s the kind of spot that kids might tussle on with a kicked ball or a half‑swing of a frisbee, but it’s never really found its purpose.
Why This Little Pocket Matters
- Untapped Potential – With a bit of imagination, the plot could turn into a community garden, a mini‑park, or a backyard space for local events.
- Community Pride – A lively public area would bring a burst of energy to the neighborhood instead of just being a patch of grass.
- Prime Location – Sunlight, easy road access, and a vibe that’s just waiting to be unlocked.
Revitalizing this empty space could spark a whole new wave of activity—a transition from the occasional buzz of insects to the chatter of friendly gatherings.
Exciting News for Future Homeowners!
Get ready for a fresh wave of convenience and charm coming to Teban Gardens in 2028—thanks to the brand‑new Pandan Reservoir MRT on the Jurong Region Line. If you’re looking for a home where the commute isn’t a hassle, this plot might just be your golden ticket.
Why the New MRT Makes a Big Deal
- Only three stops away from the Jurong East Interchange, the buzzing second CBD of Singapore.
- Imagine walking in minutes instead of circling the city.
- Future residents will enjoy a “destination’s walk‑away” experience—no more fumble‑around traffic jams.
What’s Already Around:
The neighbourhood feels like its own cozy enclave, with:
- NTUC FairPrice and Sheng Siong close by.
- The Teban Gardens Food Centre—a favourite for quick bites.
- All within a pleasant walking distance from the plot.
Views & Views
Picture mornings by the Pandan Reservoir, a breath of fresh air right at your doorstep. Plus, if you’re eyeing Commonwealth Secondary, this plot could edge out many existing blocks in terms of proximity.
Which Spot Is the Sweetest?
For those weighing the options:
- Teban Gardens rocks higher value with a well‑established community, scenic river views, and newfound MRT accessibility.
- Orto Leisure Park? Not the top pick. It’s a bit of an outlier—rescued from a famous street (Khatib) that’s all about green spaces rather than asphalt.
- Yishun’s layout isn’t too congested; if any redevelopment occurred, a more hidden gem would probably score higher.
Final Verdict
Between the three standout locations, Teban Gardens emerges as the clear winner: ready‑made amenities, stellar views, and a future MRT link to the transport hub of Jurong East. It’s the sweet spot for residents who want convenience, charm, and a slice of modern Singapore life.
Here’s to the future—may your new home feel like a breath of fresh air, literally!
