Move over, Bishan. A rising HDB town is set to become the next big BTO player in our little red dot, which will soon be home to a total of 42,000 new units upon completion. Located within the West region, Tengah is a sprawling 700ha estate that is roughly the size of Bishan and will consist of five housing districts: Plantation, Park, Garden, Brickland and Forest Hill.
Thinking of making Singapore’s new Tengah estate your new home? Before you decide to BTO, here are some interesting facts you never knew about this budding neighbourhood!
1. Previously a military base
Mention Tengah and most people would probably think of the Tengah Air Base. Previously used as a military training ground in the past, much of the land has since been cleared to make way for HDB’s newest establishment project. While Tengah is still largely undeveloped at the moment, plans are underway to transform the area into a flourishing town filled with greenery, modern amenities and tons of smart features. Tengah is expected to be fully developed over two decades.
2. Singapore’s very own “Forest Town”
In hopes of encouraging sustainability, Tengah is envisioned to be a “Forest Town” that is all about green living. Here, you will be greeted with the spectacular view of a 5km-long forest corridor that will lead you to other iconic spots such as the Central Catchment Nature Reserve and MacRitchie Reservoir Park.
At the heart of the town, is a first-of-its-kind forest centre known as Central Park. Filled with an abundance of green spaces and water bodies, the park will serve as a picturesque hangout space for residents to relax and enjoy recreational activities amidst the lush surrounds. There will also be an amphitheatre, which can play host to a wide variety of events such as performances, outdoor festivals and community gatherings.
3. First car-free HDB town centre
If you want an escape from the incessant traffic of honking cars or wailing sirens, this will serve as a perfect respite away from the busy urban life. In line with local efforts to reduce overall car usage, Tengah will house Singapore’s first ever car-free town centre, complete with an extensive network of cycling and pedestrian paths in a bid to promote a healthier lifestyle. This means roads and vehicles will be running beneath the town instead. How futuristic does that sound?
This, however, will only be implemented when the town reaches critical mass.
4. An urban farming community
As a throwback to the good ol’ kampung life, rural dwellers will be glad to know that the different housing districts in Tengah feature “farmways” that connect them to one another. Dedicated spaces for community gardening and urban farming will also be provided, which allow residents to grow their own crops and harvest them for consumption. Not so much of a green thumb? Fret not – organic produce will still be available for purchase. Talk about a farm-to-table experience!
5. Next-level smart living
In 2020 and beyond, smart homes just don’t cut it anymore. We’re now talking about a fully sustainable and smart-enabled city – think eco-friendly water conservation features such as an innovative roof system that collects rainwater to maximise water supply. Another unique highlight is the Pneumatic Waste Conveyance System (PWCS), which is designed to increase efficiency in waste collection and management through an underground pipe network that channels it straight to the Centralised Bin Centre.
To build a truly high-tech home, additional power outlets and data points for smart devices will be installed in each housing unit. Other energy-saving features include LED lights with motion-sensor controls, as well as energy-efficient lifts in both private and public spaces.
6. Greater convenience and accessibility
Don’t worry about Tengah being an ulu town – future homeowners can look forward to an exciting host of existing amenities like the West Mall and Yuhua Village Market, along with educational facilities around the estate including Princess Elizabeth Primary School, Bukit Batok Secondary School and Jurong Junior College. A short bus ride will also take you to Jurong East where you can get your retail fix at one of the three shopping malls located in the bustling hub.
Come 2026, the Tengah Plantation MRT Station is expected to be up and running. It will be located along the Jurong Region Line and is just four stops away from the Jurong East MRT Station, which brings greater ease and convenience to commuters in the area.
Image credits: HDB
