Turf City Singapore: A Friendly Guide to the Sports Hub
If you’re looking for a bustling hub of activity in Singapore, you might want to check out Turf City. This former racecourse has been redeveloped into a vibrant residential and commercial area that’s teeming with life. With up to 20,000 new homes planned for the area, it’s set to become one of the most sought-after places to live in the city.
Turf City is located in the Bukit Timah area of Singapore, which is known for its lush greenery and upscale properties. The development of this area is part of a larger plan to provide more affordable housing options for Singaporeans. With the addition of HDB flats, it’s hoped that more families will be able to enjoy the benefits of living in this beautiful part of the city.
If you’re interested in learning more about Turf City and what it has to offer, read on. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history and development of this area, as well as the facilities and amenities that make it such a great place to live. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about Turf City, so you can get a better idea of what to expect if you’re thinking of moving here.
Key Takeaways
- Turf City is a former racecourse that has been redeveloped into a vibrant residential and commercial area in Singapore’s Bukit Timah district.
- Up to 20,000 new homes are planned for the area, including HDB flats, as part of a larger plan to provide more affordable housing options.
- Turf City offers a range of facilities and amenities, making it an attractive place to live for families and individuals alike.
History and Development
Evolution from Racecourse to Lifestyle Hub
You may be surprised to learn that Turf City, located in Bukit Timah, Singapore, was once a racecourse. The Singapore Turf Club operated here from the 1930s until the 1990s, when it moved to its current location in Kranji. After the racecourse closed, the site was redeveloped into a lifestyle hub, with a variety of retail, dining, and entertainment options.
Role of Urban Redevelopment Authority
The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) played a significant role in the development of Turf City. The site was designated for future residential use in the 1998 Master Plan, and the URA has been responsible for overseeing its redevelopment. In May 2024, National Development Minister Desmond Lee announced plans to develop the site into a new residential enclave with up to 20,000 public and private housing units.
Preservation of Heritage Buildings
Despite the planned redevelopment, there are efforts to preserve some of the heritage buildings at Turf City. On May 23, Minister Lee announced plans to explore the preservation and adaptive reuse of 27 heritage buildings and structures across five clusters at the site, including the grandstands. These buildings include some that have stood the test of time, surviving World War II and hosting Queen Elizabeth II in 1972.
The table below summarises the key entities involved in the history and development of Turf City:
| Entity | Role |
|---|---|
| Singapore Turf Club | Former operator of the racecourse |
| Urban Redevelopment Authority | Oversees the redevelopment of the site |
| Heritage Buildings | Buildings that are being considered for preservation |
| Development | Conversion of the site from a racecourse to a lifestyle hub and now to a residential enclave |
| Land | The physical site of Turf City |
| Master Plan | The 1998 Master Plan designated the site for future residential use |
| Bukit Timah Turf City | Location of the site in Bukit Timah |
Facilities and Amenities
Sports and Recreation Spaces
Turf City is a hub for sports and recreation activities in Singapore. The former Bukit Timah Turf Club site has been transformed into a vibrant community that offers a range of sports and recreation facilities. You can enjoy a game of rugby, netball, softball, futsal, archery, tennis, or football in the open spaces available. There are also courts available for various sports.
Transport and Connectivity
Turf City is well-connected to the rest of Singapore. The Land Transport Authority has planned for a new MRT station at Turf City, which will be located along the future Cross Island Line. The MRT station will provide easy access to the area and improve public transport accessibility. The site is also located near major roads such as Dunearn Road and Bukit Timah Road, making it easy to get around by car.
Residential and Retail Developments
Turf City has a mix of public and private housing, making it an ideal location for those who want a car-lite and pedestrian-friendly lifestyle. The area has a range of amenities, including retail shops, recreational facilities, and childcare centres. The location is also surrounded by greenery, with the Eng Neo Avenue forest and central open space nearby.
The area has seen a surge in housing demand, with up to 20,000 public and private homes planned for the site. The development will provide a mix of housing choices and density forms, catering to different needs. The lease for the site has been awarded to SLA, and tenants will have access to a range of facilities and amenities.
In conclusion, Turf City is an exciting development that offers a range of sports and recreation facilities, excellent transport connectivity, and a mix of residential and retail developments. The site is well-positioned to meet the needs of Singapore’s growing population and provide a range of housing choices and density forms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What facilities are available at Turf City for football enthusiasts?
If you are a football enthusiast, you will be happy to know that Turf City has The Cage, which is a seven-a-side football facility. The pitches are covered, so you can play football rain or shine. The facility also has changing rooms and showers, making it convenient for you to freshen up after your game.
Has there been any announcement about Turf City closing down?
Yes, the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) has announced that Turf City will be redeveloped into a mixed-use development. The redevelopment plans are still in the works, and the SLA has given tenants until 31 December 2023 to vacate the premises.
What dining options can one find at Turf City in Bukit Timah?
Turf City has several dining options to choose from. You can grab a quick bite at the food court, which offers a variety of local and international cuisines. If you’re looking for something more upscale, there are several restaurants and cafes in the area that serve Western and Asian cuisine.
How can one check the latest race card at the Singapore Turf Club?
You can check the latest race card at the Singapore Turf Club’s official website. The website is updated regularly with the latest race schedules and results.
Are there any specific race dates to look out for at the Singapore Turf Club?
Yes, the Singapore Turf Club hosts several major races throughout the year, such as the Singapore Gold Cup and the Singapore Derby. These races are usually held in November and July, respectively. Be sure to check the race schedule on the official website for the latest updates.
What are the entry fees for the Singapore Turf Club, if any?
The entry fees for the Singapore Turf Club vary depending on the day and the type of event. For regular race days, the entry fee is usually around $6. However, for major races such as the Singapore Gold Cup, the entry fee can be higher. Be sure to check the official website for the latest entry fees and promotions.
