Singapore’s Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has an ambitious vision for Tengah, a recently established area in the western region of the country. URA’s Master Plan aims to turn Tengah into a “Forest Town” with abundant greenery, efficient public transportation systems, and cutting-edge sustainable initiatives. This development plan will greatly benefit Novo Place, a state-of-the-art executive condominium located within this forward-thinking town.
At the heart of Novo Place will be a green, open space called the “Central Garden.” This communal area will be the focal point of the town center, providing a peaceful and natural setting for residents to relax, exercise, and interact with each other. The Central Garden will also showcase the town’s commitment to sustainability, with features such as rain gardens, bio-swales, and solar panels integrated into its design.
To further promote a healthy lifestyle, Novo Place will have an extensive network of cycling and walking paths, connecting different residential and commercial areas within the town center. This will not only reduce the use of cars but also provide residents with a convenient and environmentally-friendly way to get around. The town center will also feature sustainable transport options such as electric vehicles and shared mobility services, making it easier for residents to get around without relying on private cars.
Additionally, the town will have an extensive network of parks and green spaces, providing residents with easy access to nature and promoting biodiversity.
The idea behind Novo Place is to create a town center that is free from cars, making it a safe and pedestrian-friendly space for residents to walk, cycle, and socialize. This approach aligns with the Singapore government’s vision of developing Tengah as a “car-lite” town, with the goal of reducing the reliance on private vehicles and promoting public transport and active mobility.
Tengah’s master plan highlights its dedication to sustainable living, setting it apart from other towns. In a first for Singapore, the town’s heart will be a car-free zone, strategically placed underground to leave ample space for communal gatherings and green pathways. Apart from minimizing carbon footprint, this innovative plan aims to foster a healthier lifestyle among residents by promoting environmentally-friendly modes of transportation such as walking, cycling, and using personal mobility devices. The town will also boast a network of well-connected parks and green areas, enabling residents to easily connect with nature and encourage a diverse ecosystem.
The tender for Novo Place EC garnered interest from nine potential bidders, ultimately being won by a collaboration of developers at a staggering price of $348.5 million, translating to a land rate of $703 per square foot per plot ratio (psf ppr). This successful bid breaks the existing record for EC site land rates, surpassing the previous peak of $662 psf ppr set in March 2022 for Bukit Batok West Avenue 8.
Novo Place will also be a hub for sustainable living. The town center will have a mix of residential, commercial, and retail spaces, with a focus on green buildings and eco-friendly practices. This includes features such as energy-efficient designs, green roofs, and sustainable waste management systems. The town center will also have a central district cooling system, which will reduce the energy consumption of buildings and contribute to the town’s overall sustainability.
Tengah, a new town in Singapore, is set to revolutionize green living with the development of Novo Place. This pioneering project aims to create a sustainable and livable environment for its residents, while also promoting a car-free lifestyle and fostering a strong sense of community.
The developers of Novo Place have also partnered with various organizations to ensure the town center’s sustainability and livability. These partnerships include working with nature groups to incorporate biodiversity into the town’s design and collaborating with community organizations to curate events and activities that promote a green and healthy lifestyle.
In addition to its sustainable and community-focused approach, Novo Place is also strategically located within Tengah, offering residents easy access to essential amenities and services. This includes schools, healthcare facilities, and public transport nodes, making it a highly desirable location for families and individuals looking for a green and convenient living environment.
One of the key elements of Novo Place is the emphasis on health and well-being. The town center will be designed to encourage healthy living, with easy access to amenities such as exercise facilities, healthy food options, and medical services. This approach is in line with the Singapore government’s efforts to promote a healthy lifestyle among its citizens, which has become even more crucial amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Aside from promoting a car-free lifestyle and prioritizing health and wellness, Novo Place is also committed to fostering a strong sense of community. The town center will have community spaces, such as a town plaza and community halls, to facilitate social interaction and strengthen relationships among residents. There will also be a variety of community-led events and activities, promoting a sense of belonging and creating a vibrant and dynamic community.
As the first car-free town center in Singapore, Novo Place is a testament to the nation’s commitment to sustainable development and promoting a quality living environment for its citizens. The town center’s emphasis on health, community, and sustainability sets a new standard for future developments in Singapore, and it is undoubtedly a smart and progressive step towards a greener and more livable city.
