An orchid-themed park, an activity promenade and more recreational spaces are possible features in National Parks Board’s (NParks) plans to rejuvenate the Istana Park and Dhoby Ghaut area.
These updates were announced by Minister of State for National Development Alvin Tan at an event held at Temasek Shophouse on Wednesday (Aug 12).
Under the plan, the current Istana Park will be merged with the existing Dhoby Ghaut Green and Penang Road Open Space, along with the 500m stretch of Orchard Road between Buyong Road and Handy Road that will be pedestrianised.
This will create a new park more than three times the size of the existing Istana Park.
“The significantly larger space will allow for a refresh of the area with new attractions and offerings, possibly including more family-friendly features, greenery and flexible spaces for activities and programmes,” NParks said.
These developments are part of the Orchard Road Rejuvenation plans announced by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and NParks, which aim to transform Orchard Road into a green oasis in the heart of the city and to “bring back the orchard” to the area.
The rejuvenated area will comprise three main sections: Orchid Park and Orchid Plaza, Istana Park and Dhoby Ghaut Green.
“This area will be the green heart of our rejuvenated Orchard Road — greener, more vibrant and more welcoming for families,” Tan said at the event.
Orchid Park and Orchid Plaza
Orchid Park and Orchid Plaza are envisioned as spaces planted with a diverse range of orchid species and hybrids, showcasing the flower’s remarkable adaptability across different growing environments.
NParks is also exploring the implementation of two pocket parks — one at Handy Road and another at Somerset — that would pay homage to the area’s history as an orchard plantation through fruit trees, spices and herbs.
Istana Park
Meanwhile, the redeveloped Istana Park will retain its ceremonial significance as the entryway to the Istana, with the possibility of incorporating a pedestrianised section of Orchard Road as a new Ceremonial Driveway, flanked by flagpoles and mature trees leading directly to the Istana’s Main Gate, NParks said.
New indoor attractions, such as galleries showcasing Singapore’s multicultural heritage, could also be introduced to enhance the horticultural experience for visitors.
Dhoby Ghaut Green
Over at Dhoby Ghaut Green, rejuvenation plans include an Activity Promenade, a multi-functional space designed to be “adaptable for various community and recreational activities.”
They might include outdoor art sessions, public performances, street markets and festivals.
Other possible additions are new recreational and green spaces such as playgardens and open lawns for the public to enjoy.
Dhoby Ghaut Green will also house a garden “honouring the pioneering spirit and contributions of Singapore women”, which was first proposed in the White Paper on Singapore Women’s Development in 2022.
The garden aims to introduce more flexible public spaces for commemorative events and activities for women’s groups, as well as educational content for visitors.
NParks said it is also considering the feasibility of an elevated link bridge connecting the area to Fort Canning Park, which will provide better access to other attractions in the area.
More details on the timeline for the Istana Park and Dhoby Ghaut developments will be shared by NParks in time.
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carol.ong@asiaone.com
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