New HDB flats expected to inject more diversity in Bukit Timah area

Experts say move can help prevent further entrenchment of area as a prime enclave

- Ng Keng Gene

The introduction of new public housing in Bukit Timah for the first time in about 40 years is a significant move that could help prevent the further entrenchment of the area as a private residential enclave, said urban studies scholars.

Their comments follow an announcement by Minister for National Development Desmond Lee on May 23 that a mix of public and private homes will be developed on the grounds of the former Bukit Timah Turf City.

Between 15,000 and 20,000 homes will be built on the 176ha site over the next two to three decades.

A spokesperson for the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) said agencies are still working on the detailed plans for the site, including the proportion of public and private homes.

Dr Harvey Neo, a professorial research fellow at the Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities, said that if the Government is truly sincere in "unpriming" the image of areas like Bukit Timah, the majority of the planned homes should be public flats.

Comparing Turf City with Tengah, which is slated to have 42,000 homes, about 70 per cent of them public flats, Dr Neo said a clear sign that the Government wants to have greater diversity would be if it set aside at least 80 per cent of the upcoming units on the former racecourse site for the public.

But this may still not be enough to change public perceptions of Bukit Timah, given that Turf City is a small part of a district with a great concentration of private homes, he said.

Dr Woo Jun Jie, a senior lecturer at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, said the insertion of public homes in Bukit Timah would benefit schools in the area, as children from more diverse backgrounds will be able to attend these schools.

"This is an important development, as greater social diversity and inclusivity in schools will ultimately contribute to broader social cohesion and a stronger sense of shared national identity," said Dr Woo.