Toa Payoh to get two new public housing projects under HDB’s Remaking Our Heartland programme.
The first satellite town built by the Housing and Development Board (HDB), Toa Payoh will get two new public housing projects as part of plans to rejuvenate the area under the Remaking Our Heartland (ROH) programme, revealed Defence Minister and Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC MP, Dr Ng Eng Hen at the launch of the ROH exhibition for Toa Payoh.
The housing project in Caldecott will be well-connected to the Toa Payoh West Market and Food Centre, the MacRitchie Reservoir as well as the Caldecott MRT station. The Toa Payoh East housing project, on the other hand, will have convenient access to the Polyclinic, Toa Payoh South Community Centre, existing Neighbourhood Centres (NCs) and parks.
HDB noted that the two housing developments could yield a few thousand units.
“When completed, these new housing projects will inject new facilities that will benefit the surrounding residents. They will also offer new and younger families the opportunity of living in Toa Payoh, making the town even more vibrant.”
Aside from the housing projects, the estate’s Town Centre will also be revamped with the addition of landscaping, sheltered rest areas, more seating spaces and possibly a water play feature.
The five HDB NCs will be made more senior-friendly and inclusive, with the installation of ramps and handrails as well as the provision of multi-generational facilities such as elderly exercise corners and children’s play areas.
Meanwhile, Toa Payoh’s 4-kilometre ring road will be revitalised with the creation of a Nature Way, which will feature plant species that reflect the agricultural past of the estate. Seven pocket parks, with fitness stations and community spaces, will also be introduced along the route.
Intra-town connectivity will be improved with the addition of more cycling paths, sheltered walkways and supporting features such as bicycle crossings. Two Silver Zones areas have also been designated – at Lorong 5 Toa Payoh and Lorong 8 / Lorong 8A Toa Payoh.
To celebrate the town’s rich heritage and distinct charm, the elevated garden fronting Block 184 within the Town Centre will be “transformed into Toa Payoh’s own Arts and Heritage Corner”, where a model of the Toa Payoh Town Centre in the 1970s will be displayed.
“With new outdoor seating areas and greened trellises, the Arts and Heritage Corner will also double up as a tranquil rest stop for residents and visitors,” said the HDB.
This article was edited by Denise Djong.
