New Seafront Site Released

Source : TODAY, Friday, September 14, 2007

Site at Marina South to feature mixed facilities, 11,000 residential units

SENTOSA Cove could soon lose its monopoly on luxury seafront living in Singapore, after the authorities unveiled yesterday a 60-ha site at Marina South for a similar development.

Located next to the upcoming Garden at Marina South and the Marina Barrage a stone's throw away, the waterfront site is slated to host about 11,000 residential units, likely to be private housing.

Many developers who went into Sentosa Cove on a first-mover basis have made a lot of money.- Cushman and Wakefield MD Donald Han

But, in contrast to the secluded Sentosa Cove, urban planners have in mind a mix of facilities — such as retail, food-and-beverage, offices, hotels, even schools — for residents and the public to enjoy at the proposed Marina South residential district.

The plot is next to Marina South Pier, which some expect to make way for a new international passenger cruise terminal.

The project is being touted as "a landmark residential district" offering residents the best of both worlds: Waterfront living in a lush, green setting by the Garden at Marina South, according to a news release by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and Singapore Institute of Architects.

Demand for an alternative city lifestyle at Marina South will be high, judging by the record-breaking prices set for Sentosa Cove, predicted Cushman and Wakefield's managing director Donald Han.

"It is more of an extension of — rather than competition for — Sentosa Cove, which is smaller and has a limited number of residences.

"This is a residential enclave with a dual premium view of the sea and lush gardens. It also offers close access to the business and financial district."

Interest would be keen, especially from developers well-versed in high-end projects, he told Today. "A lot of the developers who went into Sentosa Cove on a first-mover basis have made money."

The Marina Bay area has been a work-in-progress in recent years, due to the authorities' rejuvenation efforts. In the works are the Marina Barrage, the Marina Bay Sands integrated resort and the 101-ha Gardens by the Bay.

A competition was launch-ed yesterday to gather ideas for the Marina South residential district. Participants have to submit their take on high-density city living in a waterfront garden environment, with environmental sustainability and community bonding among factors to be taken into account.

Up to 10 ideas will be awarded a shared prize of $50,000. These may be incorporated in the URA Master Plan next year. The competition closes Nov 12. More details are at www.ura.gov.sg or www.sia.org.sg/marina.

Source : Singapore Institute of Architects (www.sia.org.sg/marina)

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Gardens By The Bay