Developing Jurong Lake District into a commuter, pedestrian and cyclist-friendly precinct

Jurong Lake District will be developed into a commuter, pedestrian and cyclist-friendly precinct with enhanced connectivity and accessibility by a comprehensive pedestrian and cycling network linked into green corridors and waterways.

This was among the key ideas discussed at the first Jurong Lake District Steering Committee meeting chaired by Mr Lawrence Wong, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and Second Minister for Ministry of Communications and Information held yesterday evening.

The Steering Committee noted the possibility of the High-Speed Rail (HRS) terminus being sited in the District, and linked up to the new MRT lines - Jurong Region Line and Cross-Island Line - being planned around the area. It said that this is a game-changer which can make Jurong Lake District a second CBD with high connectivity, within Singapore and beyond, and very distinctive green and blue features.

As the location of the HSR terminus is still being worked out, the Steering Committee said the more immediate focus will be on Jurong Lake Gardens, which includes development of the revitalised Jurong Lake Park as well as revitalisation of the existing Chinese and Japanese Gardens, and the integration of these elements with the new Science Centre grounds.

There will be a public consultation on the plans for the Gardens in March 2015. The ideas gathered will be incorporated into a design brief for an international design competition for the Gardens. The competition is likely to be launched in the latter part of 2015.

Mr Wong said, "We had a very fruitful first discussion. The committee members gave many insightful views and suggestions on how we could create a vibrant, sustainable and inclusive Jurong Lake District. The view was unanimous around the table that it is rare in any city to find such extensive greenery and water bodies in one area. So we should take advantage of this natural endowment to create a distinctive and unique identity for the precinct. We will engage the public extensively to gather feedback to help shape the district into an outstanding live, work, play district that is sustainable, smart and connected."

The Jurong Lake District Steering Committee was set up in October 2014 to drive the plans and development for Jurong Lake District and its surrounding areas. The 14-member committee comprises Mrs Josephine Teo, Senior Minister of State for Finance and Transport and Mr Desmond Lee, Minister of State for National Development and 11 individuals from diverse backgrounds ranging from urban planning, real estate and design, natural heritage, science and technology as well as the local community.

spanaech@sph.com.sg