Big Boost: 3,000 BTO Flats Coming Soon
Get ready for a real shake‑up in Ulu Pandan – the whole area is sprucing up with 3000 BTO flats across three fresh projects, all set to crack open for the first time in November. That’s a lot of new homes and a whack‑random blend of low‑rise and high‑rise blocks.
- Location: Eastern half of Dover Forest
- Unit types: 1,330 three‑room & four‑room units
- Views: Gorgeous canal panoramas + Holland Grove landed estate
- Design: Low‑rise facing the Ulu Pandan Canal, high‑rise up against Commonwealth Avenue West
The canal itself is getting a makeover – the plan is to refresh and beautify it, so residents will be able to enjoy a sparkling waterway right outside their windows.
What to Expect When the Blocks Go Live
- Eye‑catchy low‑rise apartments with direct canal access – perfect for morning jogs and sunset gazes.
- High‑rise towers offering a chance to feel tiny amid the city bustle while still being in the same neighbourhood.
- A mix of architecture that keeps the visual vibe fresh and lively, no nod to the old “ulu reputation.”
This development is set to leave a lasting impression, turning Ulu Pandan from a quiet suburb into a buzzing community – all while keeping the spirit of the canal and the charm of Holland Grove alive in every swipe of a window. Enjoy your new slice of Singapore living!
Queens of the Suburban Realm: A Fever-Pitched BTO Launch
Picture this: Queens’ historic enclave, Queenstown, is about to welcome a brand‑new BTO project. The last time people were buzzing about a launch here was in 2012—over a decade ago. That’s a long wait, which means the anticipation is already at a fever pitch. Why? Because this area is a goldmine of amenities: mature parks, well‑established shops, schools and community services—all right on your doorstep. That’s a recipe for a hot ticket sale.
And if you’re a young couple with close‑knit family ties, you’ll be jostling for a spot on the ballot. There’s a magnetic pull in living close to relatives and thriving in a neighborhood that’s already lived in. The chance to snag a home in this “old‑school” area is a deal that many will chase.
At the moment the market in Ulu Pandan is dominated by landed houses and condos. A BTO project here is a budget‑friendly splash that gives residents more options without breaking the bank.
Three Fun Facts About the New Ulu Pandan BTO
- First‑to‑the‑Gates: This project is the mind‑blowing first BTO offering in Ulu Pandan in a while, promising a fresh beat in a skyline that’s familiar.
- Kill‑Your-Budget: With the focus on landed properties and condos here, the BTO offers a pocket‑friendly alternative that could save you thousands over the years.
- Community‑Centric: Developers are targeting this mature estate to harness a rich tapestry of amenities—think chill-out parks, family cooking corners, and easy commutes for the whole clan.
1. Nature-conscious design
Singapore’s Green Dream: New Estates and Big Trails
Singapore is on a mission to become greener and more sustainable over the next decade, and it’s putting the plan into concrete (or concrete‑free) action. The fresh housing estates are designed to keep a minimal ecological footprint while letting residents lounge in nature.
How the Green Plan is Spinning the Wheels
Ulu Pandan: A Picture‑Perfect Paradise
Why It Matters
The idea is simple: a healthier, happier community that cares more about the planet. With more built‑in nature, people can easily walk, bike, and plant, turning everyday life into an outdoor adventure.
Bottom line: Singapore’s new estates aren’t just homes – they’re eco‑havens that make sustainability feel like a fun weekend getaway rather than a chore.
2. Co-existing with endangered critters
Why a Green Route on Ulu Pandan Matters
Picture a stretch of lush, winding green along Ulu Pandan, where birds glide and turtles glide—literally—across a safe, nature‑friendly pathway. That’s exactly what the Home and Development Board (HDB) is aiming for this year.
How It’s Happening
- Collaboration at its Core: HDB is teaming up with PUB, Singapore’s national water agency, and the National Parks Board (NParks). These three agencies are combining their expertise to design a corridor that’s not just pretty but functional.
- Planning and Implementation: The project involves thoughtful placement of trees and water‑friendly features that will allow both flora and fauna to thrive while still providing a safe, walkable area for residents.
Protecting the Key Players
The corridor serves as a crucial link for a handful of species that need a little extra care:
- Grey Heron – This species faces the pressures of a shrinking habitat.
- Asian Softshell Turtle – A species that’s not only endangered but also relies on clean water for survival.
- Other Wildlife – From amphibians to small reptiles, they’ll all benefit from the safe passage.
What Residents Can Expect
When completed, the green corridor will open doors to:
- A serene walking path that cuts across the neighbourhood.
- New opportunities for nature observation, making it ideal for weekend strolls.
- Improved ecological balance that helps keep the local ecosystem healthy.
So, next Sunday, grab your sneakers and head to Ulu Pandan—why not let the local wildlife get a taste of your seasonal vibe?
<img alt="" data-caption="The grey heron and Asian softshell turtle. Both species are classified as vulnerable and endangered, respectively.
PHOTO: 99.co” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”0990df99-16c0-4420-b910-c2172dfbc290″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/20221026_endagered%20species_99co.png”/>
Biodiversity Gets a Second Chance in Dover Forest
Picture this: a sprawling 33‑hectare stretch of woodland that was almost earmarked for high‑rise homes. Thanks to a spirited rally of nature lovers, scientific evidence, and about 1,800 voices from the public, the plan took a heart‑warming detour. Now, only the eastern side—just 11 hectares—will get the makeover, leaving the rest of the forest to stretch its roots free.
Why the shift?
- Nature Groups Unite: Environmentalists presented robust studies showing how the forest shelters countless species.
- Citizen Voices: Thousands of residents put out their opinions—turning a passive bystander situation into a lively civic debate.
- Public Housing Pull‑back: HDB staged a graceful retreat, realizing that green spaces can be as valuable, if not more, than concrete towers.
What Does 11 hectares Mean?
Out of the full 33‑ha area, the eastern segment will experience careful development. Think of it as a mini‑residential oasis where homes are built, but trees keep busy doing what they do best—shelter birds, filter the air, and remind us that a little green can make a big difference.
Takeaway
By reshuffling the original angle, the Dover Forest keeps the vibe alive: a place where humans and nature can coexist. And if that doesn’t make you smile, at least you’ll be glad the trees now stand firmly—without the looming shadows of sky‑high condos.
Conserving Wildlife in Singapore: The Green Edition
Singapore’s land is tighter than a phone‑case on a small phone, yet the folks at Housing & Development Board (HDB) are now giving the country’s most precious forests a legal shield for the next decade.
Why the Forest Matters
- Dover Forest boasts 158 animal species—including some that are on the brink.
- It also hosts 120 plant species, many of which are the “big shots” in the botanical world.
The western half is a top‑tier biodiversity hotspot: towering trees, endangered species, and overall richer green vibes compared to the eastern side.
Three Key Moves
- Nature park security: A formal plywood‑scar‑free zone protecting the western woodland.
- Connection roads: Making sure wildlife can hop over to other natural havens like Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and the Southern Ridges.
- Listening ears: The authorities took the time to chat with Singaporeans, crowd‑source opinions, and run thorough environmental studies before cutting any tree.
What Makes This All So Nice?
Who said urban planning can’t be green? By setting a landscape‑wide plan, Singapore has proactively shuffled the deck: wildlife stays healthy, human homes get built, and folks can actually walk through green patches without stepping on a bulldozer.
Bottom line? All parties are now a bit happier: animals get a safe habitat, citizens get clean parks, and the government gets a feather in its green cap.
3. Ditch your vehicles
Ulu Pandan: The Car‑Free Underground (Well, almost)
Picture this: a charming HDB precinct where the idea of pulling up to a parking spot feels a little… quaint. Ulu Pandan is the first car‑lite hub among Singapore’s four pioneering estates, and it’s all about giving… well, not your cars a place to dock.
What the Car‑Lite Means for You
- No endless parking chaos—there are fewer spaces, but the ones that remain are up for grabs by the community and some lovely greenery. Nature gets its chance to shine.
- Neat, this way the area feels like a green playground rather than a traffic jam.
Why Fewer Cars is a Win
It’s simple: fewer vehicles = less pollution and better air quality. Your lungs will thank you, especially after a stroll or a quick spin on the bikes.
Deals for Residents (Because We’re Generous, Not Cheap)
- First car? Good news—residents get free parking (or at least, minimal fees). We’re basically saying, “You’re welcome.”
- Second car? Yep, you’ll pay $190 if parking is still available. Think of it as a small price for keeping the streets lovely and uncluttered.
Getting Around: Public Transport, Walking, Cycling
Let’s get the “metal monster” out of the picture. Ulu Pandan’s designers have made it super convenient for you:
- Elevated linkways for a quick, weather‑proof hop to Dover MRT.
- From there, you’re minutes away from a commercial node that’s brimming with shops, cafés, and all the “can‑you‑eat‑it” foods you love.
In short, if you’re a commuter who loves a good walk or a tidy bike ride, Ulu Pandan has your back. No cars, no stress, just a smoother stroll through a greener neighborhood.
Future Ulu Pandan BTO projects
Ulu Pandan: A Skyline (and a Water‑Stream) is on the Horizon
Where the New BTO Units Are Going to Pop Up
All the remaining BTO flats in Ulu Pandan are likely to be built right at the sweet spot where Ghim Moh Link kisses Commonwealth Avenue. That’s where the trusty little water stream will keep its job of separating the two sets of towers—think of it as the natural boundary that keeps the projects from getting into a hullabaloo.
High‑Rise Future Looks Bright
Compared to the current block (which has a gross plot ratio (GPR) of 3.3), the extra plot has a GPR of 3.9. What that means? More floor‑area per square foot of land, which pumps them up from medium‑rise to tower‑topping.
Why Higher Walls Are a Win
- Greater skyline: residents will enjoy panoramic views of the canal and the nearby landed houses.
- Better ventilation and lighting for the units below.
- More “boutique” feel — a little more space can do wonders for that cozy townhouse vibe.
In short, the revamped Ulu Pandan will let folks admire the water‑way and the affluent neighbours from a new, lofty perch. Basically, it’s a win for both planners and future homeowners who’ll get to brag about their view.
Unexpected Finds in My New BTO Estate
Just moved into my brand‑new BTO flat, and I was ready for the usual things—fresh paint, a brand‑new kitchen, and maybe a stray pigeon that decided to call my balcony its home. But Nigeria just because I didn’t anticipate a few quirky surprises, let me share the top 5 unexpected discoveries that made my first few weeks in the estate feel like a comedy show.
1. The Mystery Plant That Grew Overnight
Right after unpacking, I spotted a tiny pot of succulent between the sofa cushions. I swear it’s been sitting there for the length of time since the construction finished. Turns out it’s part of the HDB’s new “green” initiative, and the tiny guy has become an instant favorite for the crew. I tried to give it a name, but that would have required a formal adoption ceremony. So I’ll just call it “Greenling.”
2. An Empty Ghost Closet With a Remote
While walking into the hallway, I stumbled upon a closet that didn’t lock. Nestled inside, there was a television remote, a packed bag of Mountain Dew, and a sweater that looked suspiciously like it belonged to the person who used to live there. The official reason? A storage unit that was left to explore its potential. I’ve started calling it the “Ghost Closet” because it was never shown in any promotional material.
3. The Golden Key That Unlocks Smiles
One sunny afternoon, I found an ornate brass key on a random bin outside the front gate. I tried it on multiple locks, but it only worked on the buzzer that tunes into my favorite chirp‑song playlist. The HDB staff jokingly called it a “mystery key.” Now, every time I hear that buzz, I’ve got a grin that could light up a whole block.
4. Secret Snack Corner Hidden in the Stairwell
When I passed through the stairwell, a small stash of chips and salsa was waiting for me. Apparently, there’s a junior staff member who likes to keep emergency snacks near the stairs for emergencies and light snacks. That’s the first time I’ve seen HDB staff declare a “pep‑stop.” I have officially given it the title “Snack Haven.”
5. The Unexpected Community Theatre
Next door? There’s a set of folding chairs and an outdated projector. The HDB tried to be quirky and set up a “Community Theater” for residents to film short stack videos. The first movie we produced was a 5‑minute hamster documentary that got a million views inside our block. And yes, the trailer is included in the official upload.
Putting it all together, my new BTO estate feels less like a sterile building and more like a living, breathing community. Perfectly imperfect. Take a look around—you might just find the next big surprise. 99.co has been the guiding light to this adventure, and let’s keep it going. Cheers to new homes that come with a throw‑away script and a laugh‑inducing twist!
