Source : The Straits Times, March 1, 2008
BUSINESSES along the Singapore River have welcomed a new government plan to revamp the area and are hoping the changes will translate into more spending on food, alcohol and entertainment.
'Clarke Quay has the critical mass and prime location. I'm very confident that the area will attract even more people with the enhancements,' said Mr Clark Martin, owner of the Highlander Bar at Clarke Quay.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) unveiled plans yesterday to revamp the river from Empress Place to Kim Seng Bridge.
Mr Bill Graham, co-owner of Clarke Quay restaurants Peony Jade and Quayside Seafood and nightspot The Pump Room, said that the STB was 'spending the right money on the right things'.
'It's not mega bucks, it's not the Eiffel Tower. But it will double, maybe triple, the appeal of the area, and will give Singapore something iconic to crow about,' he said.
Some businesses are already planning to capitalise on the changes. For instance, Mr Graham is anticipating more river taxi traffic and hopes to entice more passengers into his restaurants with promotional packages.
Regular patrons to the area said they are looking forward to the revamp, but at least one hoped that the STB would use a light touch in some spots.
'I think Robertson Quay could do with more lighting, but if it gets too glitzy, then it'll lose its quaint feeling,' said Mr David Firth-Eagland, 30, a Canadian operations manager working here.
Some tenants also felt more could be done.
Mr Mohan Mulani, chief executive of Harry's Holdings which owns a Harry's Bar outlet at Boat Quay, said that other problems, such as touting, should be addressed. He said the problem has been around for too long, and tourists are getting irritated.
Just up the river at Robertson Quay, Ms Monique Kwok, operating partner of Belgian restaurant Brussels Sprouts, complained of a stench coming from the river 'four days out of seven'. She said it is off-putting to diners in outdoor restaurants.
'If the STB can look into all these first, that would be good. There is no point enhancing the river when you have these problems,' she said.
Showing posts with label Singapore River. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Singapore River. Show all posts
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Makeover To Add Night Buzz To S'pore River
Source : The Straits Times, March 1, 2008
Walkways, trees and water will be bathed in light in time for upcoming river-centred activities
THE Singapore River is getting its biggest makeover since 1999, when $16 million was spent to improve the pedestrian walkways there.
Work, to begin next month, will be geared towards creating a night-time buzz along the historic, 3km stretch from the river mouth inland.
The makeover - the first comprehensive one of the waterfront attractions - will be anchored by new lighting which will evoke the magic of being out at night:
The trees on the water's edge will be lit up and 'jellyfish' lights will gleam on the water; the sidewalks will be bathed in subtle light and landing points for river taxis will also be lit.
The lights on the bridges will even be programmable to match festivals or seasons.
New street furniture and street signs will be put in place to create a backdrop for a line-up of river-centred activities like the Singapore River Festival in September, a two-week jamboree that will feature a mega-concert, river float parade, outdoor parties and other events.
By the time the inaugural Formula One Grand Prix race rolls around - also in that month - the work will be two-thirds done.
Asked why the focus is on creating buzz for the riverfront by night, Mrs Cheong Koon Hean, chief executive officer of the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), explained that Singapore's sweltering daytime temperatures are not conducive to walks by the river, 'so it makes sense for us to create a vibrant night life' for the cooler evenings.
Indeed, although the Singapore River has for years been touted as one of the 'must-see' free attractions, a 2006 survey by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) revealed that only 7 per cent of tourists polled visited it.
The same survey had the Orchard Road shopping strip topping the list of free attractions, with 73 per cent of polled tourists beating a path there, and 51 per cent to Chinatown.
Neither the STB nor URA could be persuaded to say how much the improvements, first announced in 2006, will cost, but STB's assistant chief executive of leisure Margaret Teo let on that the project will 'run into the millions', although it would still 'cost less than' the $40 million poured into renovations for Orchard Road.
The budget nonetheless reflects the latest effort to rejuvenate the riverfront, which was given a $170 million clean-up in the 1980s to get rid of its pong and to lift it above being a waterway for Singapore's early commerce.
While riverfronts in other countries are key attractions for tourists and locals, the fortunes of the attractions on the banks of the Singapore River have waxed and waned.
Boat Quay itself has undergone smaller-scale revamps; the constant flux in shops and restaurants there hint at businesses' low staying power.
Mr Mohan Mulani, the chief executive of Harry's Holdings which owns Harry's Bar there, said: 'One gets the feeling that Boat Quay is very rundown. It is like the necklace of Singapore, and it could be a beautiful necklace shimmering by the water.'
A revamp is long overdue, he added.
Businesses like his will be included in a programme by the STB and URA to provide seed funding to merchants there to develop events on the river all year round.
Cruise operators will also be increasing river taxi and cruise services along the river.
Equity salesman Teo Kian Boon, 30, hopeful that the makeover will make a difference, said: 'Maybe all these will finally turn us into Venice of the East.'
Walkways, trees and water will be bathed in light in time for upcoming river-centred activities
THE Singapore River is getting its biggest makeover since 1999, when $16 million was spent to improve the pedestrian walkways there.
Work, to begin next month, will be geared towards creating a night-time buzz along the historic, 3km stretch from the river mouth inland.
The makeover - the first comprehensive one of the waterfront attractions - will be anchored by new lighting which will evoke the magic of being out at night:
The trees on the water's edge will be lit up and 'jellyfish' lights will gleam on the water; the sidewalks will be bathed in subtle light and landing points for river taxis will also be lit.
The lights on the bridges will even be programmable to match festivals or seasons.
New street furniture and street signs will be put in place to create a backdrop for a line-up of river-centred activities like the Singapore River Festival in September, a two-week jamboree that will feature a mega-concert, river float parade, outdoor parties and other events.
By the time the inaugural Formula One Grand Prix race rolls around - also in that month - the work will be two-thirds done.
Asked why the focus is on creating buzz for the riverfront by night, Mrs Cheong Koon Hean, chief executive officer of the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), explained that Singapore's sweltering daytime temperatures are not conducive to walks by the river, 'so it makes sense for us to create a vibrant night life' for the cooler evenings.
Indeed, although the Singapore River has for years been touted as one of the 'must-see' free attractions, a 2006 survey by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) revealed that only 7 per cent of tourists polled visited it.
The same survey had the Orchard Road shopping strip topping the list of free attractions, with 73 per cent of polled tourists beating a path there, and 51 per cent to Chinatown.
Neither the STB nor URA could be persuaded to say how much the improvements, first announced in 2006, will cost, but STB's assistant chief executive of leisure Margaret Teo let on that the project will 'run into the millions', although it would still 'cost less than' the $40 million poured into renovations for Orchard Road.
The budget nonetheless reflects the latest effort to rejuvenate the riverfront, which was given a $170 million clean-up in the 1980s to get rid of its pong and to lift it above being a waterway for Singapore's early commerce.
While riverfronts in other countries are key attractions for tourists and locals, the fortunes of the attractions on the banks of the Singapore River have waxed and waned.
Boat Quay itself has undergone smaller-scale revamps; the constant flux in shops and restaurants there hint at businesses' low staying power.
Mr Mohan Mulani, the chief executive of Harry's Holdings which owns Harry's Bar there, said: 'One gets the feeling that Boat Quay is very rundown. It is like the necklace of Singapore, and it could be a beautiful necklace shimmering by the water.'
A revamp is long overdue, he added.
Businesses like his will be included in a programme by the STB and URA to provide seed funding to merchants there to develop events on the river all year round.
Cruise operators will also be increasing river taxi and cruise services along the river.
Equity salesman Teo Kian Boon, 30, hopeful that the makeover will make a difference, said: 'Maybe all these will finally turn us into Venice of the East.'
Jazzing Up S'pore River's Sights And Sounds
Source : The Business Times, March 1, 2008
COME September, visitors will be treated to a new look and an enhanced experience of the sights and sounds of the Singapore River.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB), together with the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), yesterday announced plans for a series of infrastructural developments as well the staging of new signature events to promote the nightlife alongside the river.
STB spokeswoman Margaret Teo said: 'The Singapore River has the potential to stand out as a a distinctive 24-hour entertainment lifestyle destination.
'Plans lined up will add to the precinct's overall appeal and augment our international standing as an exciting, dynamic and vibrant city and a leading events and entertainment capital in Asia.'
There are three parts to the plans. The first is a series of infrastructural changes which will see more night-lighting, street furniture such as benches, signage and storyboards, in addition to new bumboat landing points and ticketing kiosks.
The lighting plan will see new ambient and programmable lighting for the Read and Cavanagh bridges, that would be able to change to suit various festive occasions. Underbridge lighting along the Clemenceau, Coleman and Elgin bridges will be another feature, besides floating 'jellyfish' lights on the river and enhanced landscape lighting along the three-kilometre stretch.
The URA will soon be launching a tender for the construction of a mobile floating stage at Boat Quay, which will accommodate a range of arts and cultural performances, concerts and dance acts.
The next approach will involve STB working with stakeholders of the various quays to create an annual events calendar for the area.
The highlight will be the Singapore River Festival, an annual event held in conjunction with F1 Singapore GP seasonal festivities spanning the two weeks leading up to the race.
At other times, each quay is expected to organise an event that mirrors its unique character. For example, the Empress Place event might have a greater focus on the arts, heritage and culture while the Clarke Quay event will play up its entertainment nightlife facade.
The final part of the plans is a continued partnership between the public and private sectors, such as 24-hour licensing for round-the-clock operations or even government seed money for lifestyle events by the entertainment industry.
The first phase of infrastructural works will be completed by September, with the second phase to be launched in October with expected completion next March.
COME September, visitors will be treated to a new look and an enhanced experience of the sights and sounds of the Singapore River.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB), together with the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), yesterday announced plans for a series of infrastructural developments as well the staging of new signature events to promote the nightlife alongside the river.
STB spokeswoman Margaret Teo said: 'The Singapore River has the potential to stand out as a a distinctive 24-hour entertainment lifestyle destination.
'Plans lined up will add to the precinct's overall appeal and augment our international standing as an exciting, dynamic and vibrant city and a leading events and entertainment capital in Asia.'
There are three parts to the plans. The first is a series of infrastructural changes which will see more night-lighting, street furniture such as benches, signage and storyboards, in addition to new bumboat landing points and ticketing kiosks.
The lighting plan will see new ambient and programmable lighting for the Read and Cavanagh bridges, that would be able to change to suit various festive occasions. Underbridge lighting along the Clemenceau, Coleman and Elgin bridges will be another feature, besides floating 'jellyfish' lights on the river and enhanced landscape lighting along the three-kilometre stretch.
The URA will soon be launching a tender for the construction of a mobile floating stage at Boat Quay, which will accommodate a range of arts and cultural performances, concerts and dance acts.
The next approach will involve STB working with stakeholders of the various quays to create an annual events calendar for the area.
The highlight will be the Singapore River Festival, an annual event held in conjunction with F1 Singapore GP seasonal festivities spanning the two weeks leading up to the race.
At other times, each quay is expected to organise an event that mirrors its unique character. For example, the Empress Place event might have a greater focus on the arts, heritage and culture while the Clarke Quay event will play up its entertainment nightlife facade.
The final part of the plans is a continued partnership between the public and private sectors, such as 24-hour licensing for round-the-clock operations or even government seed money for lifestyle events by the entertainment industry.
The first phase of infrastructural works will be completed by September, with the second phase to be launched in October with expected completion next March.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Area Around Singapore River To Be Revamped For F1 Night Race
Source : Channel NewsAsia, 29 February 2008
The area around the Singapore River is getting a new look to give it a night-time buzz, and lighting will be a key feature in the makeover.
The Read and Cavenagh bridges will be fitted with programmable lights that produce different colours and patterns. There will also be lights under the Clemenceau, Coleman and Elgin bridges.
Even the underpasses at Boat Quay, Empress Place and Clarke Quay will be fitted with programmable lights.
The river steps outside Central Mall and UOB Plaza will light up as well.
Floating lights in the shape of jellyfish will be making a splash on the river outside Empress Place. There will also be new street lamps and lights on the trees along the riverfront.
Work on the makeover starts in April and the Singapore Tourism Board is aiming to finish the first phase in time for the Formula One night race in September.
The first phase of infrastructure work stretches from the mouth of the Singapore River to the Cavenagh Bridge and Clarke Quay – about 2km out of the total 3km of works.
The second phase – from Robertson Quay to Kim Seng Bridge – will start in October 2008, and is scheduled to be completed in March 2009.- CNA/so
The area around the Singapore River is getting a new look to give it a night-time buzz, and lighting will be a key feature in the makeover.
The Read and Cavenagh bridges will be fitted with programmable lights that produce different colours and patterns. There will also be lights under the Clemenceau, Coleman and Elgin bridges. Even the underpasses at Boat Quay, Empress Place and Clarke Quay will be fitted with programmable lights.
The river steps outside Central Mall and UOB Plaza will light up as well.
Floating lights in the shape of jellyfish will be making a splash on the river outside Empress Place. There will also be new street lamps and lights on the trees along the riverfront.
Work on the makeover starts in April and the Singapore Tourism Board is aiming to finish the first phase in time for the Formula One night race in September.
The first phase of infrastructure work stretches from the mouth of the Singapore River to the Cavenagh Bridge and Clarke Quay – about 2km out of the total 3km of works.
The second phase – from Robertson Quay to Kim Seng Bridge – will start in October 2008, and is scheduled to be completed in March 2009.- CNA/so
S'pore River To Get Makeover To Add Buzz To Waterfront Nightlife
Source : The Straits Times, Feb 29, 2008
THE Singapore River, already a throbbing night-life spot, will get a large-scale makeover to add even more buzz to the waterfront area.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) on Friday morning announced plans to make it rock round the clock.
These include infrastructural improvements such as new lighting and signs, as well as adding a new river festival and other quayside events.
These are part of the effort to create more night-time buzz in the area, said Ms Margaret Teo, assistant chief executive (leisure) at the STB.
'Like Orchard road and the Marina Bay precincts, the Singapore River has the potential to stand out as a distinctive 24-hour entertainment lifestyle destination,' she said.
According to a 2006 survey by the STB, only 7 per cent of visitors polled actually visited Boat Quay and Clarke Quay, despite the fact that the STB has touted them as one of Singapore's must-see sights.
The STB and Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) said the makeover will run into the millions but will cost less than the US$40 million facelift for Orchard Road.
The bulk of the costs will go towards infrastructural works.
The river enhancement project will be carried out in two phases, with the first expected to start in April and end in August, in time for the Formula One races Singapore is hosting in September.
It will see ambient lighting installed along the bridges, trees, river walls, boat landings, and staircases from Cavenagh Bridge to Clarke Quay.
These will include programmable lighting on bridges and underpasses, 'jellyfish' lights in the water, and even lit-river taxis.
Other improvements will include new signs and themed street furniture that will match each sub-precinct.
The second phase, to start in October and expected to be completed by March next year, will see similar improvements made to the area stretching from Robertson Quay to Kim Seng Bridge, near Zouk.
Cruise operators will also increase river taxi and cruise services along the river.
The STB will complement the 'hardware' with 'software', which will include a signature event - the Singapore River Festival - to be held from Sept 19 to 28 as a lead-up to the F1 season.
It will include a mega concert on the river, a river float parade, outdoor parties, art exhibitions, and food and beverage promotions.
The STB will work with stakeholders in Empress Place and Clarke Quay to develop their own themed events.
THE Singapore River, already a throbbing night-life spot, will get a large-scale makeover to add even more buzz to the waterfront area.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) on Friday morning announced plans to make it rock round the clock.
These include infrastructural improvements such as new lighting and signs, as well as adding a new river festival and other quayside events.
These are part of the effort to create more night-time buzz in the area, said Ms Margaret Teo, assistant chief executive (leisure) at the STB.
'Like Orchard road and the Marina Bay precincts, the Singapore River has the potential to stand out as a distinctive 24-hour entertainment lifestyle destination,' she said.
According to a 2006 survey by the STB, only 7 per cent of visitors polled actually visited Boat Quay and Clarke Quay, despite the fact that the STB has touted them as one of Singapore's must-see sights.
The STB and Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) said the makeover will run into the millions but will cost less than the US$40 million facelift for Orchard Road.
The bulk of the costs will go towards infrastructural works.
The river enhancement project will be carried out in two phases, with the first expected to start in April and end in August, in time for the Formula One races Singapore is hosting in September.
It will see ambient lighting installed along the bridges, trees, river walls, boat landings, and staircases from Cavenagh Bridge to Clarke Quay.
These will include programmable lighting on bridges and underpasses, 'jellyfish' lights in the water, and even lit-river taxis.
Other improvements will include new signs and themed street furniture that will match each sub-precinct.
The second phase, to start in October and expected to be completed by March next year, will see similar improvements made to the area stretching from Robertson Quay to Kim Seng Bridge, near Zouk.
Cruise operators will also increase river taxi and cruise services along the river.
The STB will complement the 'hardware' with 'software', which will include a signature event - the Singapore River Festival - to be held from Sept 19 to 28 as a lead-up to the F1 season.
It will include a mega concert on the river, a river float parade, outdoor parties, art exhibitions, and food and beverage promotions.
The STB will work with stakeholders in Empress Place and Clarke Quay to develop their own themed events.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Snazzy Water Taxis To Liven Up The River
Source : The Straits Times, Feb 20, 2008
$7m fleet of 20 electric boats is part of major revamp of S'pore River and surrounding areas to boost businesses there
A SLEEK fleet of electric water taxis will start plying the Singapore River from April.
Operated by tour company Singapore Ducktours, the 20 vessels, costing $7 million in all, will be part of the changes that will transform the riverfront into a dining, nightlife and tourism destination.
The new boats will replace those operated by tourism and leisure company Singapore Explorer, which began its service in 1995 and ended it on Dec 31 last year.
Another company, Singapore River Cruises & Leisure, will continue running its bumboat service on the river.
Players in the nightlife industry were all for a spruced-up river taxi service.
Mr Bernard Lim, executive vice-president of LifeBrandz, which runs the Ministry Of Sound and Lunar at Clarke Quay, said: 'The river links all the hubs of the nightlife scene and we should make full use of that.'
He added that newer, snazzier boats would encourage more people to hop onto river taxis to get from quay to quay, which 'would be a brilliant start'.
News of the changes to the river taxi service come ahead of an announcement by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) of a major revamp of the river and its neighbourhoods.
It has been speculated that renovations will begin at Boat Quay, Empress Place and Clarke Quay in April, ahead of September's Formula One race. Improvements to Robertson Quay and the Zouk vicinity will follow.
The Straits Times understands that meetings about the revamp, involving STB, business owners and venue operators have been taking place over the past year.
Mr Colin Goh, 40, general manager of performing arts venue The Arts House said the consultations were rigorous and stirred up enthusiasm among industry players.
'These upcoming changes will potentially change the entire complexion of the Singapore River,' he said.
The revamp will entail 'infrastructure enhancements' and 'the staging of signature events', STB and the Urban Redevelopment Authority said in a statement last year. The year before, the URA announced plans to light up the promenades along the river and the water itself.
The revamp is expected to go some way towards drawing 10.8 million visitors here and getting them to spend $15.5 billion this year.
The riverside neighbourhoods have attracted tourists and Singaporeans since businesses were allowed into the area in the late 1980s, but a magic formula for sustained success has proved elusive. The area has been renovated many times with mixed results.
Boat Quay, for instance, has lost considerable lustre in recent years; Clarke Quay's current success has come only after several less-than-successful makeovers over the years.
Most business owners The Straits Times spoke to said it is time something is done; some are also willing to spend money to renovate their interiors.
Mr Andy Ashok Vaswani, the director of Bollywood nightclub Khazana at Boat Quay, noted that STB has been promoting Clarke Quay in the last five or six years at Boat Quay's expense.
He said: 'It'll be a good thing if they put the changes in place. Boat Quay used to be in the tourist belt. But when you say 'tourist belt', you have to be promoting something for the tourists in the first place.'
Mr Mohan Mulani, chief executive of Harry's Holdings, which runs a chain of pubs, agreed.
'These changes are long overdue. The river is the gem of Singapore, but it has become a little worn out. Re-invigorating these areas is a great idea.
'Historically, the river has been where all the action happens.'
$7m fleet of 20 electric boats is part of major revamp of S'pore River and surrounding areas to boost businesses there
A SLEEK fleet of electric water taxis will start plying the Singapore River from April.
Operated by tour company Singapore Ducktours, the 20 vessels, costing $7 million in all, will be part of the changes that will transform the riverfront into a dining, nightlife and tourism destination.The new boats will replace those operated by tourism and leisure company Singapore Explorer, which began its service in 1995 and ended it on Dec 31 last year.
Another company, Singapore River Cruises & Leisure, will continue running its bumboat service on the river.
Players in the nightlife industry were all for a spruced-up river taxi service.
Mr Bernard Lim, executive vice-president of LifeBrandz, which runs the Ministry Of Sound and Lunar at Clarke Quay, said: 'The river links all the hubs of the nightlife scene and we should make full use of that.'
He added that newer, snazzier boats would encourage more people to hop onto river taxis to get from quay to quay, which 'would be a brilliant start'.
News of the changes to the river taxi service come ahead of an announcement by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) of a major revamp of the river and its neighbourhoods.
It has been speculated that renovations will begin at Boat Quay, Empress Place and Clarke Quay in April, ahead of September's Formula One race. Improvements to Robertson Quay and the Zouk vicinity will follow.
The Straits Times understands that meetings about the revamp, involving STB, business owners and venue operators have been taking place over the past year.
Mr Colin Goh, 40, general manager of performing arts venue The Arts House said the consultations were rigorous and stirred up enthusiasm among industry players.
'These upcoming changes will potentially change the entire complexion of the Singapore River,' he said.
The revamp will entail 'infrastructure enhancements' and 'the staging of signature events', STB and the Urban Redevelopment Authority said in a statement last year. The year before, the URA announced plans to light up the promenades along the river and the water itself.
The revamp is expected to go some way towards drawing 10.8 million visitors here and getting them to spend $15.5 billion this year.
The riverside neighbourhoods have attracted tourists and Singaporeans since businesses were allowed into the area in the late 1980s, but a magic formula for sustained success has proved elusive. The area has been renovated many times with mixed results.
Boat Quay, for instance, has lost considerable lustre in recent years; Clarke Quay's current success has come only after several less-than-successful makeovers over the years.
Most business owners The Straits Times spoke to said it is time something is done; some are also willing to spend money to renovate their interiors.
Mr Andy Ashok Vaswani, the director of Bollywood nightclub Khazana at Boat Quay, noted that STB has been promoting Clarke Quay in the last five or six years at Boat Quay's expense.
He said: 'It'll be a good thing if they put the changes in place. Boat Quay used to be in the tourist belt. But when you say 'tourist belt', you have to be promoting something for the tourists in the first place.'
Mr Mohan Mulani, chief executive of Harry's Holdings, which runs a chain of pubs, agreed.
'These changes are long overdue. The river is the gem of Singapore, but it has become a little worn out. Re-invigorating these areas is a great idea.
'Historically, the river has been where all the action happens.'
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
A Floating Icon On The Singapore River
Source : TODAY, Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Self-propelled platform for up to 250 revellers in the offing
After the spectacular success of the National Day celebrations on the platform at Marina Bay, revellers can look forward to a smaller — and movable — version on the Singapore River.
The self-propelled stage — to be positioned as a "future icon" along the river — will allow partygoers to soak up the atmosphere on the waters while watching ballet, listening to a jazz concert or just chilling out.
The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), spearheading the project, has in mind a floating venue for arts and cultural events, performances as well as corporate functions.
The proposed stage — slightly smaller than an Olympic-sized swimming pool — will have room for 250 people and is likely to berth at four locations, giving it the flexibility to capture different targeted groups of spectators along the river.
The locations of the stages: Clarke Quay's The Central; near the site of Raffles landing and in front of the Asian Civilisation Museum; in front of UOB Plaza and Esplanade Park.
The URA's urban planning and design director Fun Siew Leng said the floating stage is part of the Government's initiative to improve Singapore's night buzz.
She said: "The floating stage will enhance the Singapore River's attraction as a lively and vibrant area for Singaporeans and visitors to enjoy.
"It will also contribute in creating more night-time buzz that can make Singapore an attractive 24/7 city to live, work and play in."
The URA is inviting the private sector and interested parties (under a RFI — Request for Information) to submit information for the design, construction, maintenance and operation of the proposed floating stage.
The design must be "distinctive, sculptural, attractive and in keeping with the scale and character of the Singapore River".
Singapore can draw inspiration for the stage from The Aquashell at Sydney Harbour and the floating stage used for The Henley Festival in England.
The Henley Festival of Music and the Arts — featuring classical music concerts, art exhibits, roving performers and outdoor restaurants — has been held for the past 25 years on the River Thames.
Stakeholders Today spoke to embraced the idea of building a floating stage.
Singapore Dance Theatre general manager Alvan Loo said the stage would be great for outreach events for performing groups. "The different backdrops of the river could also inspire our choreographers to put up different performances for audiences," he said.
IndoChine's owner Michael Ma, who operates a bar and restaurant at the Asian Civilisation Museum, said the platform could allow him to stage concerts with the city skyline as a backdrop. But rents should be affordable, he stressed.
Self-propelled platform for up to 250 revellers in the offing
After the spectacular success of the National Day celebrations on the platform at Marina Bay, revellers can look forward to a smaller — and movable — version on the Singapore River.
The self-propelled stage — to be positioned as a "future icon" along the river — will allow partygoers to soak up the atmosphere on the waters while watching ballet, listening to a jazz concert or just chilling out.
The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), spearheading the project, has in mind a floating venue for arts and cultural events, performances as well as corporate functions.
The proposed stage — slightly smaller than an Olympic-sized swimming pool — will have room for 250 people and is likely to berth at four locations, giving it the flexibility to capture different targeted groups of spectators along the river.
The locations of the stages: Clarke Quay's The Central; near the site of Raffles landing and in front of the Asian Civilisation Museum; in front of UOB Plaza and Esplanade Park.
The URA's urban planning and design director Fun Siew Leng said the floating stage is part of the Government's initiative to improve Singapore's night buzz.
She said: "The floating stage will enhance the Singapore River's attraction as a lively and vibrant area for Singaporeans and visitors to enjoy.
"It will also contribute in creating more night-time buzz that can make Singapore an attractive 24/7 city to live, work and play in."
The URA is inviting the private sector and interested parties (under a RFI — Request for Information) to submit information for the design, construction, maintenance and operation of the proposed floating stage.
The design must be "distinctive, sculptural, attractive and in keeping with the scale and character of the Singapore River".
Singapore can draw inspiration for the stage from The Aquashell at Sydney Harbour and the floating stage used for The Henley Festival in England.
The Henley Festival of Music and the Arts — featuring classical music concerts, art exhibits, roving performers and outdoor restaurants — has been held for the past 25 years on the River Thames.
Stakeholders Today spoke to embraced the idea of building a floating stage.
Singapore Dance Theatre general manager Alvan Loo said the stage would be great for outreach events for performing groups. "The different backdrops of the river could also inspire our choreographers to put up different performances for audiences," he said.
IndoChine's owner Michael Ma, who operates a bar and restaurant at the Asian Civilisation Museum, said the platform could allow him to stage concerts with the city skyline as a backdrop. But rents should be affordable, he stressed.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Govt Plans To Erect Floating Stage At Singapore River
Source : Channel NewsAsia, 06 November 2007
The government is planning to erect a floating stage at the Singapore River.
This is part of efforts to enhance the buzz in the city's night life.
The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has launched a "Request for Information" process for the project.
It is seeking expressions of interest for the design, construction, maintenance and operation of the floating stage.
Based on the information submitted, the URA will then determine whether to proceed with a Request for Proposal or tender.
The floating stage is expected to be iconic, and host arts and cultural events, performances as well as corporate functions to add vibrancy to the Singapore River. -CNA/ms
The government is planning to erect a floating stage at the Singapore River.
This is part of efforts to enhance the buzz in the city's night life. The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has launched a "Request for Information" process for the project.
It is seeking expressions of interest for the design, construction, maintenance and operation of the floating stage.
Based on the information submitted, the URA will then determine whether to proceed with a Request for Proposal or tender.
The floating stage is expected to be iconic, and host arts and cultural events, performances as well as corporate functions to add vibrancy to the Singapore River. -CNA/ms
URA Moots Idea Of Floating Platform On S'pore River
Source : The Straits Times, Nov 6, 2007
IMAGINE being enraptured by Christmas carols, or entranced by a Chinese New Year lion dance - by performers on a floating platform along the Singapore River.
This idea of a movable floating stage on the waterway has been mooted by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), to add that 'zing' for a more vibrant nightlife along the river.
Likely to be a performance venue for arts and cultural events, the platform is envisaged to be about 40 by 25 metres, with space for up to 250 people, a kitchen, two showers, and two dressing rooms.
'As announced during the Budget Debate this year, the floating stage is part of the government's initiative to improve night-time buzz in Singapore [...] that can make [us] an attractive 24/7 city to live, work and play in,' said Ms Fun Siew Leng, the URA's director of urban planning and design.
Observers also noted that the URA had pledged in a letter to The Straits Times to revitalise the waterfront after Straits Times readers wrote in three months ago to complain that Boat Quay was becoming an eyesore.
The plans for the floating stage were revealed in a Request for Information (RFI) listed on Nov 5 on the government tender website GeBiz.
During this RFI process, the URA will mull over the private sector's ideas on design, construction and other aspects before it decides to open the project for tender.
The stage is expected to be self-propelled, so that it will not need to be towed, and to have a collapsible roof, to pass under the low bridges along the river.
Read the full report in Wednesday's edition of The Straits Times.
IMAGINE being enraptured by Christmas carols, or entranced by a Chinese New Year lion dance - by performers on a floating platform along the Singapore River.
This idea of a movable floating stage on the waterway has been mooted by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), to add that 'zing' for a more vibrant nightlife along the river. Likely to be a performance venue for arts and cultural events, the platform is envisaged to be about 40 by 25 metres, with space for up to 250 people, a kitchen, two showers, and two dressing rooms.
'As announced during the Budget Debate this year, the floating stage is part of the government's initiative to improve night-time buzz in Singapore [...] that can make [us] an attractive 24/7 city to live, work and play in,' said Ms Fun Siew Leng, the URA's director of urban planning and design.
Observers also noted that the URA had pledged in a letter to The Straits Times to revitalise the waterfront after Straits Times readers wrote in three months ago to complain that Boat Quay was becoming an eyesore.
The plans for the floating stage were revealed in a Request for Information (RFI) listed on Nov 5 on the government tender website GeBiz.
During this RFI process, the URA will mull over the private sector's ideas on design, construction and other aspects before it decides to open the project for tender.
The stage is expected to be self-propelled, so that it will not need to be towed, and to have a collapsible roof, to pass under the low bridges along the river.
Read the full report in Wednesday's edition of The Straits Times.
Friday, September 28, 2007
Collyer Quay Makeover
Source : The Straits Times, Sep 28, 2007
One Fullerton part of big revamp; exciting new dining, nightlife possibilities opening up
COLLYER Quay and the surrounding corridor of properties are set for big changes under developer Sino Land's multimillion-dollar makeover plan.
Among the first to be revamped will be One Fullerton, though it is one of the newest buildings on the waterfront.
Sino Land's plans call for the building to get a new set of tenants offering exciting dining and nightlife possibilities - all by August or September next year, to ride on the National Day festivities.
It is a popular vantage point for the National Day Parade, which is now held on a floating amphitheatre across the bay.
But the big ace up the developer's sleeve is that the top floor of One Fullerton has the perfect vista onto the hairpin turn of the proposed F1 race track.
The company said it will explore how it can best use its prime waterfront vantage.
Ms Sulian Tan-Wijaya, the new general manager of The Fullerton Heritage, now the name for Sino Land's clutch of properties in the area, said: 'There are tremendous opportunities to create special events and promotions in the precinct.'
Sino Land, controlled by the family of property magnate Ng Teng Fong, won the tender for the Collyer Quay corridor amid much public interest. It put in the highest bid at $165.8 million for the land. The group already owns the iconic Fullerton Hotel and Waterboat House.
The Fullerton Heritage project will preserve the distinctive architecture of the area - including historic Clifford Pier and the Customs Harbour Branch Building.
Upmarket restaurant and luxury retailers are meant to fill the area, which will be rebuilt with outdoor decks and spaces for cafes.
The plans also include a six-storey luxury boutique hotel with 100 rooms with 'full sea views'.
Revellers will be able to party on the water itself as the blueprint calls for a floating plaza with space for a nightspot and several private 'pods' for shops or exclusive parties.
The Straits Times understands that the development will also have berths for small boats that will ply the bay.
The Fullerton Heritage is set to grow alongside a string of attractions around the promontory of the Singapore River. This includes the new Marina Bay downtown and financial centre; the Marina Bay Sands integrated resort (IR); the Garden at Marina South; the Singapore Flyer, and the Esplanade Theatres by The Bay.
Together, they will cater to about 50,000 well-heeled executives working in the area, as well as about 20,000 residents in the upcoming residential projects, including The Sail, which will sit right next to the Sino Land development area.
Mr Donald Han, managing director of property consultancy Cushman & Wakefield, told The Straits Times that market interest has been keen, especially in the upmarket Clifford Pier.
The Fullerton Heritage had several factors going for it, he said. For one thing, it would be an architectural showcase, especially with the efforts to preserve Clifford Pier.
But more importantly, it would have one of the longest, and most sought-after waterfronts in Singapore: 'It's a view to die for.'
With its multiple buildings, Sino Land can create the draw for a critical mass of visitors, he said. 'I think of it as the last link, almost, in the entire rejuvenation masterplan for the Marina Bay area.'
When told of the plans, undergraduate Kenny Tan, 21, wondered if it would be too much of a good thing: 'Hopefully, it doesn't end up as a white elephant with all the competition from the new IR and downtown.'
But shipping executive Simon Lee, 37, said that he could envision it as the new place to see and be seen.
One Fullerton part of big revamp; exciting new dining, nightlife possibilities opening up
COLLYER Quay and the surrounding corridor of properties are set for big changes under developer Sino Land's multimillion-dollar makeover plan.
Among the first to be revamped will be One Fullerton, though it is one of the newest buildings on the waterfront.
Sino Land's plans call for the building to get a new set of tenants offering exciting dining and nightlife possibilities - all by August or September next year, to ride on the National Day festivities.
It is a popular vantage point for the National Day Parade, which is now held on a floating amphitheatre across the bay.
But the big ace up the developer's sleeve is that the top floor of One Fullerton has the perfect vista onto the hairpin turn of the proposed F1 race track.
The company said it will explore how it can best use its prime waterfront vantage.
Ms Sulian Tan-Wijaya, the new general manager of The Fullerton Heritage, now the name for Sino Land's clutch of properties in the area, said: 'There are tremendous opportunities to create special events and promotions in the precinct.'
Sino Land, controlled by the family of property magnate Ng Teng Fong, won the tender for the Collyer Quay corridor amid much public interest. It put in the highest bid at $165.8 million for the land. The group already owns the iconic Fullerton Hotel and Waterboat House.
The Fullerton Heritage project will preserve the distinctive architecture of the area - including historic Clifford Pier and the Customs Harbour Branch Building.
Upmarket restaurant and luxury retailers are meant to fill the area, which will be rebuilt with outdoor decks and spaces for cafes.
The plans also include a six-storey luxury boutique hotel with 100 rooms with 'full sea views'.
Revellers will be able to party on the water itself as the blueprint calls for a floating plaza with space for a nightspot and several private 'pods' for shops or exclusive parties.
The Straits Times understands that the development will also have berths for small boats that will ply the bay.
The Fullerton Heritage is set to grow alongside a string of attractions around the promontory of the Singapore River. This includes the new Marina Bay downtown and financial centre; the Marina Bay Sands integrated resort (IR); the Garden at Marina South; the Singapore Flyer, and the Esplanade Theatres by The Bay.
Together, they will cater to about 50,000 well-heeled executives working in the area, as well as about 20,000 residents in the upcoming residential projects, including The Sail, which will sit right next to the Sino Land development area.
Mr Donald Han, managing director of property consultancy Cushman & Wakefield, told The Straits Times that market interest has been keen, especially in the upmarket Clifford Pier.
The Fullerton Heritage had several factors going for it, he said. For one thing, it would be an architectural showcase, especially with the efforts to preserve Clifford Pier.
But more importantly, it would have one of the longest, and most sought-after waterfronts in Singapore: 'It's a view to die for.'
With its multiple buildings, Sino Land can create the draw for a critical mass of visitors, he said. 'I think of it as the last link, almost, in the entire rejuvenation masterplan for the Marina Bay area.'
When told of the plans, undergraduate Kenny Tan, 21, wondered if it would be too much of a good thing: 'Hopefully, it doesn't end up as a white elephant with all the competition from the new IR and downtown.'
But shipping executive Simon Lee, 37, said that he could envision it as the new place to see and be seen.
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