Bukit Merah to be improved under the Remaking Our Heartland (ROH) programme
Bukit Merah is set to undergo a significant transformation, promising improvements for its 130,500 residents.
The Housing and Development Board (HDB) recently unveiled plans to revamp the town centre, enhance connectivity to green areas, and incorporate historical elements into the town’s fabric as part of the Remaking Our Heartland (ROH) program.
The rejuvenation plans were announced by Second Minister for National Development Indranee Rajah on 17 September. It aims to make Bukit Merah’s older estates more vibrant and better suited to the evolving needs of the community.
Bukit Merah, along with Ang Mo Kio, Queenstown, and Choa Chu Kang, were all selected for rejuvenation in 2020 for the ROH programme. The said programme was first announced in 2007 by PM Lee.
The plans were developed through feedback from residents and stakeholders gathered through surveys and focus group discussions.
The makeover includes upgrades to Bukit Merah’s town centre, creating a more appealing shopping experience and introducing a larger sheltered event space for community events.
Pedestrian malls will also see more seating and potential play areas, with residents participating in the co-creation process.
Meanwhile, enhancements in connectivity include new pedestrian and cycling paths, sheltered linkways, and the opening of two new MRT stations – Keppel and Cantonment Stations – by 2026, improving rail network connectivity.
Additionally, Neighborhood Centers (NCs) in Bukit Merah will also receive attention, with added amenities such as outdoor seating, play facilities, and spaces for community events.
The town will also become more senior-friendly and will include sheltered walkways, ramps, and non-slip flooring, as well as fitness trails, therapeutic gardens, and exercise equipment.
Moreover, a new pocket park and cycling paths will link the town centre to the Rail Corridor. More greenery will be also added alongside new sheltered pavilions and multi-generational facilities.
Historical elements will be integrated into the town, including thematic playgrounds, murals, and educational boards inspired by Bukit Merah’s rich history to make it into a “living museum.” For example, the upcoming Alexandra Vale Build-to-Order (BTO) development will have a swordfish motif mural inspired by local folklore about how Redhill got its name.
Residents will have the opportunity to provide feedback on these heritage elements. The ROH plans will be on display at various locations including Bukit Merah Town Centre from 17 September to 24 September before shifting to Telok Blangah Community Club, Radin Mas Community Club, and Tiong Bahru Plaza.
Residents are encouraged to visit and share their thoughts online at HDB InfoWEB.
The improvements are set to be realised in the next five to ten years.
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