Singapore’s Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has unveiled bold redevelopment plans for Bishan Town Centre as part of the Draft Master Plan 2025. The vision: to transform the area into a thriving business and lifestyle hub featuring new office towers, a polyclinic, a pedestrian mall, and enhanced green public spaces.
Bringing Jobs Closer to Homes
The redevelopment plan for Bishan is in line with Singapore’s long-standing decentralisation strategy. First introduced in the 1990s, this initiative aims to create business and employment opportunities outside the Central Business District (CBD), making work and essential services more accessible to residents across the island.
Located next to Junction 8 shopping mall and the Bishan bus interchange, Bishan Place is being studied as a potential site for office developments on par with Paya Lebar Central. According to National Development Minister Chee Hong Tat, these new office spaces are intended to create employment nodes closer to where people live, reducing the need for long commutes.
A New Lifestyle Hub with Healthcare and Amenities
In addition to business infrastructure, the URA’s proposal outlines plans for new amenities that will benefit both residents and workers. These include a new polyclinic and a potential hawker centre integrated into a revamped bus interchange with air-conditioned waiting areas.
The town centre will also be reimagined as a landscaped pedestrian mall, enhancing walkability and promoting community interaction. Skyrise greenery and shaded pathways are expected to blend seamlessly with future developments, creating a more pleasant urban environment.
Possible Relocation of Government Offices
URA revealed that several government agencies are exploring the possibility of relocating their offices to Bishan Town Centre as part of this redevelopment. While no specifics have been shared yet, such a move could serve as a strong anchor for the area, bringing footfall and additional infrastructure.
Why Bishan Is a Strategic Choice
Property experts and urban planners say Bishan is a natural choice for a sub-regional business hub. With its mature-town status, strategic location between the northern heartlands and the city centre, and excellent transport connectivity via MRT and expressways, Bishan is well-positioned to support decentralised economic activity.
According to Colliers’ head of research Catherine He, the new developments could help reduce pressure on CBD office spaces while offering companies a more cost-effective alternative.
Impact on Housing Demand and Prices
Real estate analysts predict that the transformation of Bishan into a sub-regional centre will likely boost housing demand in and around the area. Resale flats in neighbouring towns such as Toa Payoh, Serangoon, Bidadari, and Caldecott may see increased interest as more people choose to live closer to their workplace.
Christine Sun, chief researcher and strategist at OrangeTee Group, noted that while prices for desirable flats in Bishan may continue to grow, the impact of rising demand could be moderated by new housing supply in nearby areas.
Between January and May 2025, Bishan recorded 34 million-dollar HDB flat transactions out of 632 such deals islandwide. In 2024, the town saw 78 units resold above the S$1 million mark.
City Centre and Marina Bay Also to See New Developments
Beyond Bishan, the Draft Master Plan 2025 includes sweeping enhancements across other parts of Singapore, particularly in the city centre.
A “destination park” is planned by merging Istana Park, Dhoby Ghaut Green and a stretch of Orchard Road. A new pedestrian bridge will connect this green corridor to Fort Canning Park, creating a family-friendly public space.
At Marina Bay, a wellness zone and new recreational facilities are on the cards. These include the long-anticipated NS Square and an expansion of Marina Bay Sands, which will feature a fourth tower and a 15,000-seat indoor arena to host global entertainment events.
Seletar East to Host New Industrial Estate
URA also announced plans to develop a new 138-hectare industrial estate in Seletar East, targeting high-value industries such as wafer fabrication. The site, located between Punggol and Seletar Aerospace Park, will undergo environmental studies to ensure responsible development.
Singapore’s Shift to Mixed-Use Economic Zones
As part of a broader planning shift, Minister Chee stated that Singapore will move away from mono-use industrial zones to flexible mixed-use districts. This transition is expected to better align with evolving business needs and improve worker amenities.
URA, in collaboration with JTC, is currently reviewing zoning guidelines to provide greater flexibility for future industrial developments.
A Sustainable Vision for the Future
The Draft Master Plan 2025 is more than just a land use document. It represents Singapore’s continued commitment to building a city that supports innovation, sustainability, and liveability.
As Bishan gears up for a bold transformation, residents and businesses alike can look forward to a more vibrant, connected, and inclusive urban experience in the years to come.
