Plans To Up Countryside Charm In Two Areas

Source : The Straits Times, May 21, 2008

Lim Chu Kang, Kranji to be developed into 'weekend refuge', with farm stays and spas

FANS of the lush farms in Lim Chu Kang and the serenity of Kranji's Sungei Buloh Nature Reserve can look forward to more outdoor activities in Singapore's small slice of countryside.

The goal is to turn the areas into a 'weekend refuge' for urbanites, said Mr Mah. (Above) Kranji farm resort. -- PHOTO: URA

Under a plan unveiled by National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan on Wednesday, Lim Chu Kang and Kranji have been earmarked for several new leisure activities, from kayaking to farm stays.

The goal is to turn the areas into a 'weekend refuge' for urbanites, said Mr Mah.

The blueprint is part of a bigger five-year review of the masterplan for Singapore's development, which will be announced tomorrow.

It will include a new emphasis on the laidback countryside charm of Lim Chu Kang, now dotted with 115 fish, goat and vegetable farms.

Three new sites will be released for the 'agri-tainment' business, a sector that includes farm stays, countryside spas and centres that teach urban dwellers the appeal of farming.

Read the full story in Thursday's edition of The Straits Times.