2 Interim Parks in Taman Jurong Bring Nature Closer to Residents

Formerly vacant land now home to rich flora and fauna, and serves as a space for community activities

- Zachary Lim

What used to be a long and narrow rectangular plot of rich orange dirt within the Lake Vista estate in Hu Ching Road is now a bed of green grass, shrubs, saplings and a community garden. Spanning the length of the estate at approximately 200m, this verdant space has become home to an assortment of birds and butterflies.

Opened on Aug 3, 2024, the Taman Damai interim park is one of two green spaces that have taken root in Taman Jurong over the past few months.

The Taman Jurong Oasis interim park, in what used to be a small grass field and extending from the existing Taman Jurong Greens in Yung An Road, opened on Nov 9, 2024.

They are among at least 25 other interim parks across Singapore, which experts say can help to bring the benefits of greenery closer to heartland folk.

Interim parks are green spaces developed on vacant land with no immediate development plans, according to the National Parks Board (NParks).

Some interim parks like Taman Damai and Taman Jurong Oasis are initiatives started by grassroots organisations.

While the authorities developed these plots, resident volunteers contribute to maintaining, for example, the community garden.

The concept of the parks was initiated by members of the Taman Jurong Citizens Consultative Committee (CCC) and its Green@Heart interest group in 2021, in a discussion involving residents and NParks representatives.

Said a spokesperson for Taman Jurong CCC: "The primary objective is to involve the community in appreciating green spaces. It is also a green space for residents to come together for activities, and to enjoy the benefits of nature on their doorsteps."