The possibility of the High-Speed Rail (HRS) terminus being sited within the district were among the issues discussed at the first Jurong Lake District Steering Committee meeting yesterday evening.
Cited as a game-changer, the HRS could turn Jurong Lake District a second CBD as it provides high connectivity. However as the location of the HSR terminus is still unverified, the more immediate focus will be on the Jurong Lake Gardens.
This includes revitalising Jurong Lake Park, as well as renewing the existing Chinese and Japanese Gardens, and the integration of these elements with the new Science Centre grounds. Additionally, there will be a public consultation on the plans for the Gardens in March 2015.
At the inaugural meeting, the Steering Committee also discussed about enhancing connectivity and accessibility in the Jurong Lake District in order to develop it into a commuter, pedestrian and cyclist-friendly precinct.
There were also ideas to shape a distinctive identity for Jurong Lake District as a vibrant live-work-play destination with lush greenery and water bodies, and environmentally-friendly and sustainable development features.
The meeting was chaired by Lawrence Wong, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and Second Minister for Ministry of Communications and Information.
“We had a very fruitful first discussion. The committee members gave many insightful views and suggestions on how we could create a vibrant, sustainable and inclusive Jurong Lake District. The view was unanimous around the table that it is rare in any city to find such extensive greenery and water bodies in one area. So we should take advantage of this natural endowment to create a distinctive and unique identity for the precinct,” Mr Wong said.
He added the committee will extensively engage the public to gather feedback.
Image source: URA
Muneerah Bee, Senior Journalist at PropertyGuru, wrote this story. To contact her about this or other stories email muneerah@propertyguru.com.sg