Bring Back the Orchard
A Green Urban Corridor
Today, Orchard Road is lined with trees that give the boulevard its lush green character. This reminds us of the street’s origin as a road lined with nutmeg and clove plantations as well as fruit orchards.
To strengthen Orchard Road’s attractiveness as a highly walkable urban corridor between the Singapore Botanic Gardens and Fort Canning Park, one possibility is to introduce curated displays of vibrant tree and shrub planting along Orchard Road that depict the colours of the tropics.
New flowering trees and shrubs can also be introduced progressively to add colour and vibrancy to the street. This will be curated to create visual impact and strengthen the identity of the different precincts, thereby evoking a sense of journey befitting Singapore’s reputation as a City in a Garden.
A Green Oasis in the City
The existing green open spaces above Dhoby Ghaut MRT station provide respite from the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road. The large mature trees, wide open spaces and pleasant shade stand in contrast with the surrounding hotels and shopping malls.
There is potential to enhance the connections between these open spaces to create a continuous green oasis comprising Istana Park, Dhoby Ghaut Green and Plaza Singapura. One possibility is to pedestrianise the section of Orchard Road at this location. This will allow us to link up existing green spaces with the surrounding developments, and open up more spaces for activities in the area.
Above Dhoby Ghaut MRT station, it is possible to introduce new family-friendly features and play areas for children within a lushly landscaped setting. A new sheltered event space will allow for a variety of public events to take place. These will add to the appeal of Orchard Road as a vibrant destination for families. We can also rejuvenate Istana Park with themed gardens inspired by the botanical and horticultural traditions and practices seen throughout Singapore’s history.
A. Inclusive Playground at Dhoby Ghaut Green
A family-friendly play area within a pocket park with lush greenery for children of all abilities to explore and learn about nature in a fun manner.
B. New Water-Play Features at Dhoby Ghaut Green
The water play features can reflect the original alignment of the Stamford Canal before it was redirected and allow children to interact with various water elements set within a lush park setting.
C. New Sheltered Events Space at Dhoby Ghaut Green
The all-weather activity lawn with a canopy can serve as a flexible events space to host various events from F&B festivals to fashion shows.
D. New Park Entrance @ Dhoby Ghaut Green
Dhoby Ghaut Green is envisioned as attractive and family-friendly, fronting the former Park Mall and linking to Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station.
