Golf Clubs Given Okay To Build Hotel On Premise

Source : The Straits Times, Fri, Sep 21, 2007

WAKING up to the tranquil surroundings of a golf course, heading for an 18-hole round right at your doorstep, and cooling off with a refreshing swim straight after.

All this will become reality for Singaporeans and tourists by 2010 - thanks to the persistence of former Member of Parliament Dr Tan Cheng Bock.

At least two golf and country clubs - Jurong Country Club (JCC) and Laguna National Golf & Country Club - have received regulatory approval to build hotels on their premises.

JCC are keen to build a 300-room hotel, while Laguna is looking at a 200-room facility.

"I hope the hotel will set the tone for Jurong's redevelopment in the years to come, and the neighbourhood won't be viewed as a sleepy hollow any longer," said Dr Tan.

The clubs' 2010 target opening dates will also leave them well-placed to cash in on the tourism boom that the Integrated Resorts are expected to herald.

One more country club - The Legends Fort Canning Park - is understood to be giving the idea serious thought

The slew of developments comes two months after the Urban Redevelopment Authority relaxed guidelines to allow hotels in golf clubs.

Previously, only chalets and guesthouses were allowed.

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