The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) is inviting public feedback on potential plans to repurpose the old Kallang Airport for lifestyle and recreational activities. This initiative is part of a broader effort to incorporate community input into the upcoming recreation masterplan, which will guide Singapore's development for the next 10 to 15 years.
Image: Daniel Taka
Opened on June 12, 1937, Kallang Airport was Singapore's first purpose-built civil international airport, serving the nation until 1955 when it was replaced by the former Paya Lebar Airport. Several structures from the site, including the terminal building, administrative blocks, and a hangar, were gazetted for conservation on December 5, 2008.
The URA's roving exhibition, currently held at Kallang Wave Mall, showcases examples of successful building repurposing projects and seeks public feedback on future plans for the old Kallang Airport and other recreational facilities in Singapore’s central region. One such example highlighted is a library that opened in 2019 within a former train depot dating back to 1932. Another example is the London Transport Museum, which opened in 1980 in the former Covent Garden Flower Market, established in 1872.
Image: Flickr/The J-thing
The URA and the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) expressed their vision for the old Kallang Airport site, emphasizing that it is expected to feature lifestyle and recreational offerings while maintaining its heritage as Singapore’s first civil international airport. The agencies aim to leverage the site's historical significance to create a unique and engaging space for both locals and tourists.
The exhibition seeks public input on what activities and amenities they would like to see at the approximately 10-hectare site, which includes conserved gateposts, lamp posts, and hangars. Ideas are being solicited on how the former airport, currently undergoing refurbishment, can be transformed into an accessible and exciting destination.
URA's initiative to seek public input reflects a commitment to community involvement in urban planning, aiming to create spaces that honor Singapore's heritage while meeting contemporary needs for lifestyle and recreational amenities. The next draft of the masterplan, incorporating public feedback, is set to be launched in 2025, shaping the city's development for years to come.
Have a good idea on how to repurpose the Old Kallang Airport building? Share your ideas with URA here!
