What is this thread all about? Well, this terminology basically came to light ever since the URA identified it as a special zone to be enhanced and preserved, as part of the Identity Plan launched in 2002.

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/images/id-map(main).gif

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/images/id-hillside-map01.gifhttp://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/images/id-hillside-map02.gifhttp://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/images/id-hillside-map03.gif
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http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/hillside/Proposal1.jpg

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http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/hillside/Proposal3.jpg

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/hillside/Proposal4.jpg

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/hillside/Proposal5.jpg

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/hillside/Proposal6.jpg

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/hillside/Proposal7.jpg

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/hillside/Proposal8.jpg

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http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/hillside/Proposal10.jpg

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/hillside/ProposalA.jpg

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/hillside/ProposalB.jpg

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/hillside/ProposalC.jpg

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/hillside/ProposalD.jpg

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/hillside/ProposalE.jpg

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/hillside/ProposalF.jpg

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/hillside/ProposalG.jpg

The West Coast has lots of greenery and is hilly and great as it offers nice sea views. Cant wait to visit these parks next time (my fav is Mount Faber)

Haha....I just went to Labrador thanks to a field trip to investigate the marine life.

I have also been to Kent Ridge park...it is quite nice....but be prepared to sweat on the way up. :D

Originally posted by huaiwei

Haha....I just went to Labrador thanks to a field trip to investigate the marine life.

I have also been to Kent Ridge park...it is quite nice....but be prepared to sweat on the way up. :D

Hey I live about a mile from there! Well the Kent Ridge Park in Kent Washington, USA that is!

Originally posted by rj2uman

Hey I live about a mile from there! Well the Kent Ridge Park in Kent Washington, USA that is! HAHAH!!! :cheers:

Official Site: http://www.ura.gov.sg/sr_bridges/index.htm

http://www.ura.gov.sg/sr_bridges/images/logo.gif
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INTRODUCTION

The Southern Ridges are a 9-km chain of hills stretching from Mount Faber Park through Telok Blangah Hill Park to Kent Ridge Park.

The Urban Redevelopment Authority of Singapore is seeking design ideas for two bridges and walkway that will link up the hills and give users a different experience to enjoy the expanse of the parks at the Ridges.

The two bridges consist of:

a. Henderson Crossing
This bridge will span across Henderson Road and the steep slopes to connect Mount Faber Park to Telok Blangah Hill Park.

b. Alexandra Link
This bridge will span across Alexandra Road and continue eastward as a walkway to skirt around the Public Utilities Board (PUB) Reservoir and link to Telok Blangah Hill Park. The bridge will also have a ramp on each side of Alexandra Road to link to the sidewalk at Hyderabad Road and to the park land at Gillman Village.

THE SPONSOR & PROMOTER

The Urban Redevelopment Authority is the Sponsor and Promoter of the Competition. The Competition is organised in consultation with the National Parks Board (NParks) and the Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA).

PRIZES & AWARDS

For each bridge, the prize monies for the winning and merit schemes are:

Winner : SGD$ 20,000
Two Merit Prizes : SGD$ 8,000 each

For each bridge, the winner of the Competition will be appointed as the Project Consultant for the development of the bridge.

JURY COMPOSITION

Chairperson:
Mrs Koh-Lim Wen Gin
Chief Planner and Deputy CEO (Physical Planning and Conservation & Urban Design), Urban Redevelopment Authority, Singapore

Members:
Dr Tan Wee Kiat
Chief Executive Officer
National Parks Board, Singapore

Mr John Ting
President
Singapore Institute of Architects, Singapore

Professor Lee Seng Lip
Emeritus Professor, Department of Civil Engineering
National University of Singapore, Singapore

Mr Sun Yu-Li
Sculptor
Singapore

THE SITES

LOCATION PLAN

http://www.ura.gov.sg/sr_bridges/images/pic-big-locationplan.jpg

HENDERSON CROSSING
Bridge across Henderson Road

http://www.ura.gov.sg/sr_bridges/images/pic-big-site01.jpg

ALEXANDRA LINK
Bridge across Alexandra Park and walkway to Telok Blangah Hill Park

http://www.ura.gov.sg/sr_bridges/images/pic-big-site02b.jpg

http://www.ura.gov.sg/sr_bridges/images/pic-big-site02a.jpg

Those pictures dont even look like Singapore!:eek: (apart from the well-maintained roads that is)

The idea of the bridge sounds really exciting!

Originally posted by RafflesCity

Those pictures dont even look like Singapore!:eek: (apart from the well-maintained roads that is)

The idea of the bridge sounds really exciting! Hehe....I wil be able to walk from school to the WTC! Then again, I would have graduated by then...dang! :D

Originally posted by huaiwei

Hehe....I wil be able to walk from school to the WTC! Then again, I would have graduated by then...dang! :D

How long you think that would take? I feel like trying it out one day and taking pics:cool:

Originally posted by RafflesCity

How long you think that would take? I feel like trying it out one day and taking pics:cool: It would most likely take you an entire afternoon.....and a very sweaty body at the end of it all!

The view from Kent Ridge park was actually quite nice, if you can get a good spot without the trees blocking you that is. ;)

What? Access up Mt Faber by escalator? Interesting...

Any idea when all these connectors between the parks will be up and ready?

I understand West Coast Park will also be connected all the way to Bt Batok nature park via the Ulu Pandan Park Connector. Check this out http://www.nparks.gov.sg/parks/par_conn/network_progress_plan.shtml

Originally posted by glenj

What? Access up Mt Faber by escalator? Interesting...

Any idea when all these connectors between the parks will be up and ready?

I understand West Coast Park will also be connected all the way to Bt Batok nature park via the Ulu Pandan Park Connector. Check this out http://www.nparks.gov.sg/parks/par_conn/network_progress_plan.shtml

Sounds cool! One could possibly spend a whole day picniking there.

They better have more lights at night though..a woman was raped and murdered at Bukit Batok Park a while back...

I think the west coast has enough of parks.

URA, please develop the area! (Don't just build parks) :D

Originally posted by TropicalSQ744

I think the west coast has enough of parks.

URA, please develop the area! (Don't just build parks) :D

Oh, I just love greenery of the parks.. only wish there were more hills :D Imagine if there was a hilly range rising up behind the CBD ala Hongkong island's; the highrises built on the ascending hilly slopes accentuate the highrise density of the skyline and makes them look much higher than they actually are. I guess that's what makes the hongkong island skyline so breathtaking.. The combination of jungles of both the concrete and real kind make for great scenery :D

very green.

Originally posted by TropicalSQ744

I think the west coast has enough of parks.

URA, please develop the area! (Don't just build parks) :D I think you are nuts. :D Do you know what lies beyond those green hills towards the direction of the sea? A huge container terminal and the southern islands featuring a forest of chimineys courtesy of the world's 3rd largest oil centre and related bio-chemical industries!! Since when did we have too much green there?? ;)

This was the news article on the competition:

November 28, 2003

Design link for 3 parks - and win $20,000

WANTED: designs for two bridges and a walkway to link the Southern Ridges. These linkages will form part of a 9km route stretching from Mount Faber Park through Telok Blangah Hill Park to Kent Ridge Park.

The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) launched a competition yesterday to seek suitable designs to make it easier for Singaporeans to enjoy these parks. One bridge across Henderson Road will connect Mount Faber and Telok Blangah Hill parks. It will be about 250m long and 30m to 40m above ground. The other bridge, across Alexandra Road, will continue eastward as a walkway to skirt around a reservoir and reach Telok Blangah Hill Park.

Construction, which will commence in mid-2005, is scheduled to be completed by end-2006.

The competition is open to architectural and civil and structural engineering firms in Singapore and abroad. A winning design and two merit prizes will be picked for each bridge. The winner will get $20,000 and be appointed as the project consultant for the development. Merit prize winners will receive $8,000 each.

Participants must register by noon on Jan 8 and the closing date for entries is noon on March 18. The results will be announced in May.

Originally posted by huaiwei

I think you are nuts. :D Do you know what lies beyond those green hills towards the direction of the sea? A huge container terminal and the southern islands featuring a forest of chimineys courtesy of the world's 3rd largest oil centre and related bio-chemical industries!! Since when did we have too much green there?? ;)

Oh, I forgot bout that.. What a pity :/ I would love to live on the hillsides of the West Coast area. :)

Hm...there are quite a couple of developments there now, but most are still relatively low-rise so far. Hopefully they will be amore ambitious when space finally starts to run out. ;)

Some pics of the area to whet your appetite.

http://www.diff.net/media/2002_03_12_Singapore_exploring/img_3746.medium.jpg

http://www.diff.net/media/2002_03_12_Singapore_exploring/img_3744.medium.jpg

http://www.diff.net/media/2002_03_12_Singapore_exploring/img_3738.medium.jpg

Wow!!!:eek:

And look at the newly completed elevated viaduct! ;)

Is that part of the Ayer Rajah Expressway?

Originally posted by RafflesCity

Is that part of the Ayer Rajah Expressway? Nope...its Telok Blangah-Pasir Panjang Road. ;)

Originally posted by huaiwei

Nope...its Telok Blangah-Pasir Panjang Road. ;)

So where would the Ayer Rajah Expressway be then in relation to that pic? And I thought Telok Blangah and Pasir Panjang are old roads?

http://www.diff.net/media/2002_03_12_Singapore_exploring/img_3746.medium.jpg

The AYE is to the right outside of this picture.

What you see there is the new viaduct built over the old Pasir Panjang and Telok Blangah roads. The old surface rods were upgraded at the same time as well. This will make it the longest continous viaduct here, streatching all the way from Keppel Distripark to Alexandra Road! (It might be even longer...im not so sure where it is supposed to end..haha!)

Actually I think those viaducts were built for swift travel from the Keppel wharves to the 2nd Link? Mainly for container trucks but I'm not sure.

Originally posted by RafflesCity

Actually I think those viaducts were built for swift travel from the Keppel wharves to the 2nd Link? Mainly for container trucks but I'm not sure. Very possible. The viaduct ends where the Pasir Panjang Container port is, and there are ramps built which go right into the gates of the ports. I belive it helps to ensure smooth traffic between the ports, and not just bewcause of the 2nd link? ;)

so true!

this picture shows it clearly
http://www.diff.net/media/2002_03_12_Singapore_exploring/img_3750.medium.jpg

and check out this house!
http://www.diff.net/media/2002_03_12_Singapore_exploring/img_3745.medium.jpg

Very clear pictures! ;)

That house looks like Alkaff Mansions?

Thats what I wondered too...actually what is Alkaff Mansion famous for? I always hear of it but never been there..:?

Originally posted by RafflesCity

Thats what I wondered too...actually what is Alkaff Mansion famous for? I always hear of it but never been there..:? The only time I remember it being mentioned was in a magazine describing it as a perfect place for lovers!! :D

I think they also serve nice Malay food there? Got to check up on it...

Originally posted by RafflesCity

I think they also serve nice Malay food there? Got to check up on it... Notice how this site is also mentioned in the Southern Ridges & Hillside Villages plan? ;)

Well I can say it is one of the attractions of this area. And that place is really underrated :)

Originally posted by RafflesCity

Well I can say it is one of the attractions of this area. And that place is really underrated :) Yeah....along with the park around it? No wonder the aithorities wants to link up the entire streatch! ;)

JUNE 24, 2004
Five designs picked for bridges in southern hill parks
By Bryan Huang

THE Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has shortlisted five designs for two bridges to be eventually built in the southern part of Singapore.

These five designs, given merit awards of S$8,000 each, have potential and would be looked into further, said the URA in a statement on Friday.

The Southern Ridges Bridge Design Competition was launched last November to find suitable designs for the two bridges that will link Singapore's three southern hill parks: Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park and Alexandra Park.

The URA said that the bridges would allow Singaporeans and visitors to walk, jog or bike in an uninterrupted, scenic route from Mount Faber Park to Alexandra Park.

Three of the designs are for the 250-m-long Henderson Crossing, which links Mount Faber Park to Telok Blangah Hill Park. The other two are for Alexandra Link, a 50-m-long bridge across Alexandra Road, which continues into a 950-m walkway to Telok Blangah Hill Park.

The five designs were chosen from among 65 entries from 11 countries, including the US, UK, China and Japan.

The URA was looking for designs that were creative, refreshing and would give a memorable experience for the users; the designs also had to have appropriate structural solutions, be buildable and easy to maintain.

None of the entries satisfied all the criteria, but the five that were picked merited another further look, said the URA.

All submissions for the competition are on show at the URA Centre from June 25 to July 10. The exhibition is open to the public, and admission is free.

http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/mnt/media/image/launched/2004-06-24/urabridge_0624_2.jpg
The Henderson Crossing as designed by Guz Architects and Web Structures aims to have an inobstrusive effect on the surrounding area.

http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/mnt/media/image/launched/2004-06-24/urabridge_0624_4.jpg
Consultants Incorporated Architects + Planners and Albert LP Loh Consultants designed this vision of Alexandra Link, which the judges commended for its fairly well-considered structure.

Copyright @ 2004 Singapore Press Holdings. All rights reserved.

No winner in design contest
Entries for URA bridge competition fall short of expectations

Friday • June 25, 2004

Loh Chee Kong
cheekong@newstoday.com.sg

THE ambitious plan to use a bridge network to link three hill parks in Singapore is still on the drawing board.

That is because no winner has emerged from the Southern Ridges Bridge Design Competition, despite a healthy haul of 65 entries from 11 countries.

Launched last November, the competition aimed to find suitable designs for a $14-million project to link Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park and Alexandra Park.

However, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) judging panel decided not to pick a winning scheme from all the entries received.

Instead, five merit awards, worth $8,000 each, were given out to schemes which "stood out above the rest" at the awards ceremony yesterday.

Said guest-of-honour, National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan: "That no winning scheme has emerged should not come as a surprise to those familiar with design competitions.

"Not every competition will result in a winning design. In fact, I appreciate the jury's resolve to take the requirements for the bridges seriously."

The judging panel consisted of one representative each from the URA, the National Parks Board, the Singapore Institute of Architects, as well as a sculptor and an emeritus professor from the National University of Singapore's civil engineering department.

Said the panel chairperson, Mrs Koh-Lim Wen Gin: "While there were good entries, none of the schemes showed a good balance … some schemes had refreshing ideas, but their structural designs were not resolved satisfactorily.

"On the other hand, there were schemes which were workable structurally, but lacking in design features which would create a memorable experience for the users."

National Parks Board CEO Dr Tan Wee Kiat said: "The best entries still fell short."

The bridge network envisioned consists of two bridges.

Linking Mount Faber to Telok Blangah Hill Park is the Henderson Crossing, which spans 250m across Henderson Road at a height of 20m to 30m. It is expected to become Singapore's longest pedestrian bridge.

The Alexandra Link, will consist of a 50m bridge across Alexandra Road and a 950m walkway to Telok Blangah Hill Park.

With these links, visitors will be able "to cycle, jog or walk through this chain of hills, explore the natural parks along the ridges and enjoy panoramic views".

The URA also hopes to promote them as tourist landmarks, to be completed before early 2007.

But all is not lost for those who entered the competition.

A six-member interview panel has been set-up to engage the merit award winners further.

Mrs Koh-Lim, who will also head this panel, said the dialogues will lead to changes and modifications to the proposals.

Meanwhile, the public can view all submissions for the competition in an exhibition at The URA Centre, 45 Maxwell Road, from this Friday until July 10.

Copyright MediaCorp Press Ltd. All rights reserved.

oh I cant wait to see how the designs turn out!

The URA has a rather comprehensive news release...along with the VISUALS! :D

I might visit the exhibition too. Just hope my camera dosent totally fail by then...

24 JUNE 2004

MOVING ONE STEP CLOSER
TO REALISE A NEW AND EXCITING PLAYGROUND –
Results of the Southern Ridges Bridge Design Competition

As part of the Identity Plan, which is a key component of the Master Plan 2003, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) exhibited plans to enhance the Southern Ridges in 2002, including the intention to improve access to the hill parks through two bridges.

A design competition was launched in November last year to find suitable designs for two bridges to link the three hill parks: Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park and Alexandra Park at the Southern Ridges. URA is pleased to announce today the results of the Southern Ridges Bridge Design Competition.

Connecting the ridges

The aim of the competition was to generate quality designs for two bridges to link the three hill parks. The two bridges are:

Henderson Crossing is to be a 250-metre long bridge spanning across Henderson Road to connect Mount Faber Park to Telok Blangah Hill Park,

Alexandra Link includes a 50-metre bridge across Alexandra Road, which is to continue eastward as a 950-metre walkway to Telok Blangah Hill Park. It also includes a ramp on each side of Alexandra Road to link to the sidewalk at Hyderabad Road and to the parkland at Gillman Village.

With these links, visitors will be able to cycle, jog or walk through this chain of hills, explore the natural parks along the ridges and enjoy panoramic views.

Results of the competition

URA received 65 submissions for this competition, with 11 from countries like the USA, the UK, Japan, South Korea and China. There were 45 entries for Henderson Crossing, and 20 for Alexandra Link.

The five-member jury, comprising architects, other professionals and academics, was to select a winning scheme for each bridge based on the following criteria: the scheme should be creative, refreshing and provides a memorable experience for the users; has appropriate structural solutions; is buildable and is easy to maintain.

While the five-member Jury was pleased with the good response to the competition, they observed that none of the proposals was able to meet the requirements fully. Some schemes had refreshing ideas but their structural designs were not resolved satisfactorily. On the other hand, there were schemes which were workable structurally but lacked design features which could create a memorable experience for the users. In view of the above, the Jury did not select a winning scheme for each bridge.

However, the Jury noted that some designs had the potential to be developed further. The Jury decided to give out merit awards to five schemes which stood out. Each merit award scheme will receive $8,000. They are:

Henderson Crossing
• Chik & Yeo Architects (Singapore) and Arup Singapore Pte Ltd Singapore);
• Guz Architects (Singapore) and Web Structures (Singapore);
• IJP Corporation Ltd (UK) and RSP Architects Planners & Engineers (Pte) Ltd (Singapore).

Alexandra Link
• Consultants Incorporated Architects + Planners (Singapore) and Albert LP Loh Consultants (Singapore);
• LOOK Architects (Singapore) and ECAS-EJ Consultants Pte Ltd (Singapore).

Please see Annex 1 for visuals and judges’ citations of the five merit award schemes. The list of jury members, general comments of the Jury and quotes by each jury member are at Annex 2.

Commenting on the competition results, CEO, URA Mrs Cheong Koon Hean, said, “Not all design competitions will result in a winner. But by generating interest in bridge design within the architecture and engineering industry, we believe that the competition has done well to encourage creativity within Singapore’s design community, and promote a greater design consciousness.”

Following through to implementation

URA as the Sponsor would follow up with each of the five award recipients, to explore if any of the schemes has the potential to be developed further before deciding if it is feasible to implement any of the schemes.

The government is committed to implementing the two bridges. When implemented, Singaporeans and visitors would be able to walk the entire stretch of green from Mount Faber Park to Alexandra Park easily.

Exhibition details

The public can view all submissions for the competition in an exhibition at The URA Centre from Friday, 25 June till Saturday, 10 July 2004. Opening hours are: Mon - Fri, 8.30 am – 7.00 pm; Sat, 8.30 am - 4.30 pm; closed on Sundays and public holidays. Admission is free.

Annex 1

(Refer to next post for photos. They are too huge!)

SOUTHERN RIDGES BRIDGE DESIGN COMPETITION -
MERIT AWARD RECIPIENTS AND SCHEMES

Henderson Crossing

Chik & Yeo Architects (Singapore) and Arup Singapore Pte Ltd (Singapore)

Jury’s citation:
This scheme was commended for its design concept of using a long sinuous conventional steel box truss to form an imageable “dragon” clad with timber trellis to complement the rustic setting of the ridges. The bridge twisted and turned for pedestrians to experience the crossing as an unfolding sequence of vistas tempered with shadows and streaks of light.

Although the two 20-m cantilevered observation balconies in mid-air were strategically angled to capitalise on the vantage views, adequate attention might not have been given to structural considerations. The 20-m high skewed columns, randomly placed in groups at 7 locations to support the bridge did not appear to be adequately designed.

The wide usage of timber to clad the bridge structure would be costly and difficult to maintain.

Guz Architects (Singapore) and Web Structures (Singapore)

Jury’s citation:
This scheme was recognised for its elegant catenary structure that had minimal visual impact on the environment. Pedestrians and cyclists could enjoy an uninterrupted panoramic view of the surroundings. Notwithstanding the simplicity of the structure, the intention of the scheme was to give a dramatic experience similar to crossing a rope bridge slung across a gorge.

The detailed structural system was not clearly presented and adequate structural considerations might not have been given for lateral sway, dynamic loading and vibrations to cater for mass events.

While the construction of the abutments and ground anchors at only one location on each side of the bridge would minimise disturbances to the vegetation, the erection of the catenary structure and truss might require temporary supports on the hill slopes as well as temporary bridging across the Henderson Road during the construction stage. Such temporary supports could damage the existing vegetation.

IJP Corporation Ltd (UK) and RSP Architects Planners & Engineers Pte Ltd (Singapore)

Jury’s citation:
It was a scheme that offered potentially exciting sculptural forms. With undulating steel and timber members forming alcoves that alternately rose over and dipped under the timber bridge deck, like waves, the scheme could be a landmark in the area.

The main structure system of steel beams and columns did not appear to be appropriately sized. In particular, for the longest span located directly over Henderson Road. With all the alcoves occurring on one side of the bridge, together with the very long span over Henderson Road which created eccentric loading on the structure, the torsional rigidity of structure was also not adequately addressed.

The extensive use of curved metal and timber members for the alcove formation and timber boards as floor material for the deck would be costly and difficult to maintain.

Alexandra Link

Consultants Incorporated Architects + Planners (Singapore) and Albert LP Loh Consultants (Singapore)

Jury’s citation:
The bridge was fairly well-considered structurally in the application of cable-stayed coupled with suspension system. A look-out point was also strategically incorporated at the middle location to capitalise on the vantage views over the valley.

The design approach to create minimal disturbance to the existing greenery and to provide an unobstructed view of the valley by dipping the structural cables below part of the bridge deck, was commendable. The deployment of one forked reinforced concrete mast of 29 metres in height as the structural support to create a gateway into the forest might be too overwhelming, given its context.

LOOK Architects (Singapore) and ECAS-EJ Consultants Pte Ltd (Singapore)

Jury’s citation:
This scheme used the interesting metaphor of the “mile-a-minute” plant to conceptualise the design of the bridge and walkway, and stitch them into natural landscapes. Inspiration was also drawn from the triangular leaves of the plant to design the triangular modules of the elevated walkway to facilitate speedy erection in a site with dense vegetation and varied topography.

The curved bridge with its tilted arch made a strong statement as it swept across Alexandra Road. The combination of elevated walkways and ground-level trails also displayed a sensitive response to the natural terrain.

The main supporting arch structure was tilted outwards from the centre line of the bridge deck structure. Structural stability and dynamic loading to cater for mass event and wind vibration should be carefully considered.

Henderson Crossing

Chik & Yeo Architects (Singapore) and Arup Singapore Pte Ltd (Singapore)

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pr/graphics/pr04-16a.gif

Guz Architects (Singapore) and Web Structures (Singapore)

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pr/graphics/pr04-16b.gif

IJP Corporation Ltd (UK) and RSP Architects Planners & Engineers Pte Ltd (Singapore)

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pr/graphics/pr04-16c.gif

Alexandra Link

Consultants Incorporated Architects + Planners (Singapore) and Albert LP Loh Consultants (Singapore)

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pr/graphics/pr04-16d.gif

LOOK Architects (Singapore) and ECAS-EJ Consultants Pte Ltd (Singapore)

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pr/graphics/pr04-16e.gif

Annex 2

Jury Members for Southern Ridges Bridge Design Competition

Chairperson:
Mrs Koh-Lim Wen Gin
Chief Planner and Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Physical Planning and Conservation & Urban Design)
Urban Redevelopment Authority, Singapore

Members:
Dr Tan Wee Kiat
Chief Executive Officer and Commissioner of National Parks Board
National Parks Board, Singapore

Mr John Ting
Immediate Past President
Singapore Institute of Architects, Singapore

Professor Lee Seng Lip
Emeritus Professor, Department of Civil Engineering
National University of Singapore, Singapore

Mr Sun Yu-Li
Sculptor
Singapore

General Comments by the Jury:

The Jury was pleased with the good response from the professionals, as shown by the number of schemes received – 45 entries for Henderson Crossing and another 20 for Alexandra Link.

The Jury observed that some schemes had refreshing ideas, but their structural designs were not resolved satisfactorily. On the other hand, there were schemes which were workable structurally, but lacking design features which could create a memorable experience for the users.

As none of the submissions struck a good balance between design quality and other practical considerations like stability, buildability and ease of maintenance, the Jury decided to give only merit awards.

Quotes by the Jury Panel

"The jury was encouraged by the good response in this competition. In the jury's mind, the winning scheme must be refreshing and provide a memorable experience for the users. At the same time, it must have the appropriate structural solution, be buildable and easy to maintain. While there were good entries, none of the schemes showed a good balance of such qualities."

Chairperson of Jury
Mrs Koh-Lim Wen Gin
Chief Planner and Deputy Chief Executive Officer
(Physical Planning and Conservation & Urban Design)
Urban Redevelopment Authority, Singapore

"In judging the entries, we looked for a union of creative flair with structural integrity that would result in proposals that address the unique site conditions in ways that would satisfy both heart and mind. The best entries still fell short."

Member of Jury
Dr Tan Wee Kiat
Chief Executive Officer and Commissioner of National Parks Board
National Parks Board, Singapore

“A design competition is an avenue for a sponsor to find implementable good ideas and the Competitors to challenge the norm - 'What should a bridge be besides connecting two points?' I am glad that the Competition has captured the imagination of the architects and engineers. They did not take the easy way out to propose straight-forward, 'safe' schemes. Instead, boundaries were pushed and these have challenged the jury in many ways. Indeed, the bridge will be nothing if it does not inspire the imagination and titillate our senses. But good designs must also be easy to build and be cost-effective.”

Member of Jury
Mr John Ting
Immediate Past President
Singapore Institute of Architects, Singapore

“A bridge is a passage, linking up places by penetrating the boundary, whether that be a road or a waterway, which separates places. A good bridge design should be both aesthetically and functionally appealing. In my view, there should be only one optimal design that fits into a given environment. The Jury's duty is to review the submissions, form a consensus, and hopefully, to identify this ideal 'wow' design. We have not found that 'wow' design from among the submissions although there were some good ones.”

Member of Jury
Mr Sun Yu-Li
Sculptor
Singapore

“I am encouraged by the many architectural and engineering ideas offered by the participants. Choosing a bridge to be built is a serious business. Especially where structural safety is concerned. The challenge in bridge design is striking a good balance of creating a memorable experience to users with practical constraints like safety and usability. Not many of the schemes were able to tie the design features with practical factors like structural and maintenance issues together.”

Member of Jury
Professor Lee Seng Lip
Emeritus Professor, Department of Civil Engineering
National University of Singapore, Singapore

SPEECH BY MR MAH BOW TAN, MINISTER FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AT AWARD CEREMONY FOR SOUTHERN RIDGES BRIDGE DESIGN COMPETITION AT THE URA CENTRE ON THURSDAY, 24 JUNE 2004, 5.00 pm.

Finding good designs for public projects: the process of bringing plans to reality

Distinguished guests

Colleagues at URA,

In November last year, URA launched the Southern Ridges Bridge Design Competition to come up with suitable designs to link the three hill parks – Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park and Alexandra Park at the Southern Ridges.

The two bridges, Henderson Crossing and Alexandra Link, will allow people to access the chain of hills and explore the natural parks along the ridges. Visitors will be able to trek, jog and catch the views from a new vantage point.

Results of competition

I am pleased to note that the competition received good response, with a total of 65 submissions for both Henderson Crossing and Alexandra Link.

The 5-person jury comprising experts from the public and private sectors, evaluated the entries rigorously, taking into account several key requirements, viz. structural safety, buildability and ease of maintenance. While the submitted designs are refreshing and innovative, the Jury felt that a winning scheme needs to satisfy both the aesthetic and engineering requirements for such bridges. Unfortunately, no scheme was able to do so. Hence, there are no winning schemes for this competition.

Nevertheless, the jury recognised that some designs have the potential to be developed further. The jury therefore decided to give merit awards to five schemes which stood out.

That no winning scheme has emerged should not come as a surprise to those familiar with design competitions. Not every competition will result in a winning design. In fact, I appreciate the jury’s resolve to take the requirements for the bridges seriously. The government has the responsibility to ensure that in bringing plans to reality, the designs must meet important criteria and standards.

Following it through to implementation

The Government remains committed to developing the two bridges. URA will be following up with the five award recipients to explore if any of the schemes has the potential to be developed further for implementation.

I am confident that at the end of this process, we will have a set of bridges that are aesthetically pleasing, and yet safe and cost-effective to build and maintain. Through the bridges, the scenic ridges will be opened up for the enjoyment of all.

Competition Has Promoted Greater Design Consciousness and Creativity

The journey to bring plans from drawing board to reality can take many routes. But it all begins with the single step of finding a good design.

Elevating the quality of design in our buildings, infrastructure, and public spaces is an important part of our strategy to make Singapore an attractive and competitive city - one that will instil pride in Singaporeans who call this our home, and excite those who come here for business or pleasure.

That is why we have chosen to organize an international and open design competition for the bridges at Southern Ridges. I believe this competition has been successful. The response in terms of number of entries has been encouraging. The process has created interest among the professionals, and encouraged them to come up with many new refreshing ideas. It has also helped to raise public awareness of the importance of quality design in uplifting our living environment.

Different methods of procuring designs

In the quest for architectural and urban design excellence, URA will continue to look for different approaches to encourage participation and procure good designs. One approach is through open and international design competitions. This Bridge Design Competition has given us many ideas of what can work for us in the Southern Ridges. The Duxton Plain International Architectural Design Competition, produced many innovative solutions for high-rise, high-density city living.

Another approach is a ‘limited’ competition, where renowned architects are invited to submit proposals for the project. This was how the City Council of Bilbao selected Frank Gehry's scheme for the Guggenheim Museum. 14 Other cities have chosen to obtain good designs by direct appointment based on the architects’ experience and expertise. Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava was commissioned to design extensions to the Milwaukee Art Museum based on his track record with outstanding designs in many cities, especially in his native Spain.

Another way is to appoint a committee to supervise the designs of key public projects. In Barcelona, selected strategic projects are supervised and guided by a "Quality Commission", comprising architects and representatives in related professions. This is similar to our Design Advisory Panels for selected key projects that have a major impact our city.

Good designs can therefore be found through a variety of ways. The important thing is to keep an open mind and be prepared to try different methods to get the best design for a particular project, taking into consideration its nature and scale. URA will continue to explore and use different ways to procure good designs to fulfill planning objectives and ensure a quality environment.

Conclusion

URA’s plans for the Southern Ridges are taking shape, and soon, we will be able to realize our plans to provide public access to the Southern Ridges through two quality bridges.

I would like to congratulate the five recipients of the merit awards for the design competition. I would also like to thank all the participants for putting in time and effort to take part in this competition. Through your efforts and participation, we move closer to creating a distinctive and design-conscious environment for Singapore

Thank you.

i would choose the most boring bridge for the henderson road crossing... it's actually quite stunning considering that its got no supports in between... and um yeah minimal visual impact is good too as the focus is on the environemnt.

the other two i like as well. number three seems to have supports that are too overwhelming though

Two of the 50 bridge designs display at URA:

http://img73.photobucket.com/albums/v222/ylstan03/Bridges/DSCN15311.jpg

http://img73.photobucket.com/albums/v222/ylstan03/Bridges/DSCN15321.jpg

wow those two are nice too! why not chosen?

I think it was because not one met URA's criteria. Here's two more......

http://img73.photobucket.com/albums/v222/ylstan03/Bridges/DSCN15331.jpg

http://img73.photobucket.com/albums/v222/ylstan03/Bridges/DSCN15341.jpg

I actually liked some of the fancy designs but I agree that simplicity should win cos its about being as 'natural' as possible. :cool:

um... how does one cross the second last bridge...

um... how does one cross the second last bridge...
Can see it jus have a fancy rooftop lah. :D

Anyway come to think of it, the winning designs like kinda bland compared to many of the others.

hrmm i still like the winning designs better than these on second thoughts...

Can see it jus have a fancy rooftop lah. :D

Anyway come to think of it, the winning designs like kinda bland compared to many of the others.

Haha.....the designer will be so sad to hear this.....:cry:

ooh... the designs have been chosen!

Time is GMT + 8 hours
Posted: 07 September 2004 1912 hrs

Designs picked for bridges to link Singapore's southern ridges

By Asha Popatlal, Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE : In three years it will be possible to walk from Mount Faber to Gillman Village on a series of bridges suspended high above the ground, once Singapore's southern ridges are linked.

Town planners have just chosen the design for the bridges and walking trails, which will span almost five kilometres.


The hill parks in the southern part of Singapore are a relatively unexplored part of the island -- but this will change.

A series of bridges with award winning designs will be built to link the three hill parks in Mount Faber, Telok Blangah and Alexandra.

The walk can start outside Harbourfront Station, where a 680-metre walking trail will take people right up to the cable car station at Mount Faber Park.

From Mount Faber Park, a curving bridge called the Henderson Crossing leads to Telok Blangah Hill Park.

Just under 300 metres long and set 36 metres above the road, it will have a curved top with unblocked views of the surroundings as you walk down the bridge deck.

From there, people can head for Alexandra Park.

The 2.3 kilometre Alexandra Link, which has a trail for both pedestrians and cyclists, will connect to a bridge above Alexandra Road.

The walk ends near the Gilman Village area.

The bridges are part of an overall Parks Plan to improve access to the green parts of Singapore.

Singaporeans Channel NewsAsia spoke to supported the plans.

"As long as they don't chop down too many trees, I think it's okay," one said.

"I think it's a great idea because with this, it makes the place more accessible, then more people will go there," another said. - CNA

the chosen designs... a departure from the normally staid designs favoured by the staid govt!

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pr/graphics/pr04-16c.gif



http://www.ura.gov.sg/pr/graphics/pr04-16e.gif

7 September 2004


URA TO IMPLEMENT PLANS TO LINK THE SOUTHERN RIDGES


1.
The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) is all set to implement plans to link up the Southern Ridges and enhance it as an attractive recreational place for both Singaporeans and tourists.


2.
It has announced the selected designs for the two bridges, one at Henderson Crossing and the other at Alexandra Link. URA will also begin planning the construction of a foot-trail which will take pedestrians from the Harbour Front MRT station right up to the cable car station at Mount Faber. From there, the visitor can use the soon-to-be-constructed bridges to explore the hill parks or take a ride to Sentosa via cable car. Please refer to Annex A for the trail to Mount Faber Park.


3.
These plans were first announced in July 2002 as part of the Parks & Waterbodies and Identity Plans. The plans were aimed at improving access to, and connectivity within, the Southern Ridges so that more people can enjoy the charms of the hill parks, the many attractions at Sentosa and the great shopping and dining experience at HarbourFront Mall.


4.
By 2007, when the bridges and foot trail are completed, visitors will be able to explore the entire stretch of green from Mount Faber Park to Alexandra Park. The bridges will link the Southern Ridges to the island wide network of connected parks, allowing more people to enjoy Singapore’s natural areas easily.



Southern Ridges Bridges - schemes selected for implementation


5.
Following the announcement of five merit awards for the Southern Ridges Bridge Design Competition on 24 June 2004, a six-member Selection Panel, comprising representatives from URA, National Parks Board and Building Construction Authority, interviewed the five teams over a period of two days. Each team explained their scheme and addressed the issues relating to their design ideas, structural proposals and construction method, particularly in relation to comments made by the Jury of the Competition. At the end of the interviews, the Selection Panel deliberated at length before coming to a conclusion on the two schemes with the highest potential to be developed further for implementation. The selected schemes are:


Henderson Crossing
The Surface Bridge, RSP Architects Planners & Engineers (Pte) Ltd in collaboration with IJP Corporation Ltd (UK)


Alexandra Link
The Mile-a-minute Bridge and Walkway, LOOK Architects and ECAS-EJ Consultants Pte Ltd


6.
The selected teams will be appointed as Project Consultants for the respective bridge. Please refer to Annex B and Annex C for the visuals of the selected schemes. The composition of the Selection Panel is shown in Annex D.


Henderson Crossing – The Surface Bridge

7.
The Surface Bridge is about 274 metres long, 8 metres wide and 36 metres high above the road carriageway. It offers an interesting sculptural form which could be appreciated when walking on the bridge deck or when viewed from the parks and the road. The bridge is made up of five undulating curved ribs forming alcoves that alternately rose over and under the bridge deck. The curved ribs forming alcoves function as shelter with seats within. The bridge is not enclosed and the views of the surrounding changes as one move along the curved bridge.


Alexandra Link – The Mile-a-Minute Bridge & Walkway

8.
The “Mile-a-Minute” bridge is about 90 metres long, 4 metres wide and 5.4 metres high above the Alexandra Road carriageway. The meandering walkway from the bridge to Telok Blangah Hill Park is about 2.3 km long and 2 metres wide. The scheme used the metaphor of the “mile-a-minute” plant to conceptualise the design of the bridge and walkway. The bridge is designed to relate to the topography and vegetation of the site. It is designed to cater for mass events, with an elevated walkway for pedestrians and a ground trail for cyclists.


9.
The two bridges are scheduled for completion by 2007.

The design sure looks pretty exciting!

The idea sure sounds very exciting and hopefully will make Mount Faber more accessible to those who dont drive (since the Harbourfront MRT station now exists)

Don't like the smaller bridge.The walkway looks ugly, so normal.

Just saw the entries.

All of them looked many times better than the chosen ones! :bash:


I regret not going to the exhibition on the entries...

hrm... actually i would like this the most if not for the huge supports. this would probably be third favourite after the plainest one (1st) and the winding wooden one (2nd).

Looks like some Slinky toy! :lol:

like ng eng teng sculpture

http://www.nusantara.com/pas/webimages/content.JPG

maybe should post in bridges section :)

Is the exhibition on the bridges still there?

ooooOOOooh .... I like these bridges ....

This is one of the seriously good things about singapore, the planning and desire to keep the city green, the park connectors are great, although quite alarming at night :)

alarming?

SEPT 8, 2004
Look out for fun bridge
Singapore's southern ridges will get a boost with two bridges - one undulating - and a footpath link creating a 4.6km trail

By Tan Hui Yee

COME 2007, pedestrians can walk all the way from Mount Faber Park to Telok Blangah Hill Park on an undulating steel and timber bridge - the longest in Singapore.

They will also be able to continue on to Alexandra Park via another landmark bridge arching across Alexandra Road.

The journey can also start from the HarbourFront MRT station. A footpath is to be built to link the station to the cable car station in Mount Faber.

The three projects, when completed, will turn the southern ridges of Singapore into a more attractive recreational area, said the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), in a statement yesterday.

Visitors will be able to explore the entire 4.68km trail without setting foot on any major road.

The designs of the two bridges by private architects and engineers had won merit awards at an international design competition earlier this year.

Parts of the designs will be modified to make them more accessible, less expensive to build and easier to maintain.

The bridges, which will cost about $14 million, will also give people greater access to the island-wide network of connected parks.

Designers of the two bridges were elated their designs were picked.

The URA had not declared a winner for both projects when it announced the results of its competition in June as it was unsure about the feasibility of some designs.

It chose instead to give merit awards to five teams.

A six-member panel, comprising representatives from the URA, the National Parks Board and the Building and Construction Authority, then interviewed the teams to see which had the best potential to be built.

The two teams - one comprising LOOK Architects and ECAS-EJ Consultants; the other comprising RSP Architects Planners and Engineers and IJP Corporation - eventually passed muster.

Mr Liu Thai Ker, a director of RSP which designed the undulating bridge, said: 'I'm totally excited. This bridge is going to be a fun bridge.'

The structure, which will span 274m and rise 36m above Henderson Road, has curved forms that alternately rise over and under it.

Said Mr Liu: 'The bridge has got an iconic quality to it.'

According to the URA, these undulating forms will be modified to reduce construction cost.

Meanwhile, the 90m-bridge across Alexandra Road, which extends into Telok Blangah Hill Park via a 2.3km-walkway, will have more entrance and exit points to allow people to join the trail midway, its architect Look Boon Gee from LOOK said yesterday.

The team, said Mr Look, had convinced the selection panel that the curved bridge was sturdy enough to handle mass events like walk-a-jogs. This was a concern of the panel.

It's like 'a creeper plant creeping along the landscape', he added, saying someone using the bridge would be able to see a whole range of greenery, from treetops to cliff-sides.

Copyright @ 2004 Singapore Press Holdings. All rights reserved.

I'm glad that now the URA actually seeks out to have 'interesting' designs and also addresses aesthetics :)

like ng eng teng sculpture

http://www.nusantara.com/pas/webimages/content.JPG

maybe should post in bridges section :)

Out of topic, but may I know where this was taken? I remember it used to be housed inside the old Plaza Singapura - before it underwent extensive renovation.

that is at the nus cultural centre or something.. took from nusantara.com

oh ok

Designs picked for bridges to link Singapore's southern ridges

7 Sep 2004

By Asha Popatlal, Channel NewsAsia

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/imagegallery/store/phpuZmQAU.jpg
A rendition of the future Alexandra Link bridge

SINGAPORE : In three years it will be possible to walk from Mount Faber to Gillman Village on a series of bridges suspended high above the ground, once Singapore's southern ridges are linked.

Town planners have just chosen the design for the bridges and walking trails, which will span almost five kilometres.

The hill parks in the southern part of Singapore are a relatively unexplored part of the island -- but this will change.

A series of bridges with award winning designs will be built to link the three hill parks in Mount Faber, Telok Blangah and Alexandra.

The walk can start outside Harbourfront Station, where a 680-metre walking trail will take people right up to the cable car station at Mount Faber Park.

From Mount Faber Park, a curving bridge called the Henderson Crossing leads to Telok Blangah Hill Park.

Just under 300 metres long and set 36 metres above the road, it will have a curved top with unblocked views of the surroundings as you walk down the bridge deck.

From there, people can head for Alexandra Park.

The 2.3 kilometre Alexandra Link, which has a trail for both pedestrians and cyclists, will connect to a bridge above Alexandra Road.

The walk ends near the Gilman Village area.

The bridges are part of an overall Parks Plan to improve access to the green parts of Singapore.

Singaporeans Channel NewsAsia spoke to supported the plans.

"As long as they don't chop down too many trees, I think it's okay," one said.

"I think it's a great idea because with this, it makes the place more accessible, then more people will go there," another said. - CNA

That link is so ugly.

i'm neutral about it... maybe they could have made it a little more porous and transparent

I don't like the design for both bridges.

Is the bridges exhibition still there, anyone?


Guidlines too strict.The one by Guz is very nice.

Actually i think the bridge is not so bad.....just a bit bland......

http://www.ura.gov.sg/skyline/skyline04/skyline04-05/images/p2_10.gif

It is a Saturday morning. Richard and Wendy DeSouza decide to take their children out for a day of fun. These residents of Telok Blangah start off with a leisurely stroll at Telok Blangah Hill Park, and cross over to Mount Faber using Henderson Crossing. Along the way, they stop by one of the alcoves on the bridge for a breather and to take in the expansive view of greenery.
As they head down from Mount Faber, they bump into their friends, Chong Wei and Susan, who are heading up to Mount Faber Cable Car Station. The young couple, who lives in Sengkang, has taken the North-East Line MRT to HarbourFront station and hiked up Mount Faber using a new foot trail. Next, the DeSouzas head for breakfast at the nearby hawker centre at the foot of Mount Faber. They then zip across to VivoCity to shop for food before catching a five–minute cable car ride to Sentosa resort island for their picnic by the sea.

This scenario will be reality in three years’ time. On 7 September 2004, URA unveiled the designs selected for two bridges along Southern Ridges, and its plans to construct a new foot trail from the HarbourFront MRT station to Mount Faber Park.

From one ridge to another

The bridge designs were picked from the five merit award schemes of the Southern Ridges Bridge Design Competition launched by URA on 27 November 2003. Henderson Crossing spans across Henderson Road and links Telok Blangah Hill Park with Mount Faber Park; Alexandra Link comprises a bridge across Alexandra Road and a walkway on the hill before reaching Telok Blangah Hill Park.

A selection panel, made up of representatives from URA, National Parks Board and Building Construction Authority, interviewed the five merit award teams in July 2004, before narrowing down to two designs with the highest potential for development:

• Henderson Crossing
“The Surface Bridge”, RSP Architects Planners & Engineers (Pte) Ltd (Singapore) in collaboration with IJP Corporation Ltd (UK)

• Alexandra Link
“The Mile-a-Minute bridge and walkway”, LOOK Architects (Singapore) and ECAS-EJ Consultants Pte Ltd (Singapore)

The two bridges will cost $14 million to build, and are scheduled to begin construction next year.

http://www.ura.gov.sg/skyline/skyline04/skyline04-05/images/p2_11.gif

The big picture
The bridges and walkway are part of URA’s plans for Southern Ridges, first exhibited in July 2002 during the Identity Plan exhibition. The aim was to improve access to, and connectivity within, Southern Ridges so that more people can enjoy the charms of the hill parks in the south of Singapore. Together with VivoCity (formerly known as HarbourFront Mall) slated for completion in end 2006 and new attractions coming up at Sentosa, Southern Ridges will definitely be a new place of fun for everyone!


Besides lush greenery, the other major draw of Southern Ridges is its rich history.

Mount Faber and Telok Blangah Hill

These two hills have long been associated with legendary figures in the folklore of early Singapore – including Temenggong Abdul Rahman from Riau who signed the historic treaty with Sir Stamford Raffles in 1819 that marked the birth of modern Singapore.

http://www.ura.gov.sg/skyline/skyline04/skyline04-05/images/p3_02.gifhttp://www.ura.gov.sg/skyline/skyline04/skyline04-05/images/p3_03.gifhttp://www.ura.gov.sg/skyline/skyline04/skyline04-05/images/p3_04.gif

A unique piece of architecture on Mount Faber is the “blood and bandages” style Danish Seamen’s Church at the junction of Pender Road and Mount Faber Loop. This Edwardian-style building was once the home of Tan Boon Liat, the great-grandson of Tan Tock Seng, and had hosted numerous famous personalities, including Dr Sun Yat Sen in 1911.

Alkaff Mansion on Telok Blangah Hill was built in the 1920s and used by the wealthy Alkaff family to entertain clients and guests of different races. The Alkaffs were Arab pioneers from Yemen who contributed to the prosperity of Singapore. In recent times, it housed a restaurant and was a popular venue for grand private functions. It is currently being studied by Singapore Tourist Board for plans to develop it into a key attraction for locals and visitors.

Kent Ridge Park

The scene of fierce fighting during World War II between the Japanese forces and the 1st and 2nd Battalions Malay Regiment, the British 2nd Loyals Regiment and 44th Indian Brigade, Kent Ridge Park is now home to Reflections at Bukit
Chandu at 31-K Pepys Road. This interpretative centre commemorates the gallantry of the soldiers who sacrificed their lives defending Singapore in 1942. The bungalow that houses the centre was formerly a store for military and food supplies of the British army.
Within the park, there is also a 2.8-km long canopy walk, which at its highest peak, is 16m above ground.

Overall, I like the idea of increasing connectivity between the various parks and so forth. But I am beginning to wonder...what about considerations on accesibility TO the places?

i've not really tried going there..sounds troublesome if you dont drive..

anyway now with the MRT to Harbourfront, i guess u will be able to walk the entire stretch from Mount Faber? I hope so :cool:

Wow, never heard of that church! :eek:

Gotta check it out!

Curvy bridge.......has construction started??

WOW, so fast????

Quote:

"For instance, the Alexandra Link and the Henderson Crossing will be tied up with the Southern Ridges which comprise Mount Faber, Telok Blangah Hill and Kent Ridge.

The two bridges should be ready by the end of 2007 or early 2008. "


URA to launch Leisure Plan to open up more areas for recreation
By Wong Siew Ying, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 29 June 2007 2312 hrs



SINGAPORE : The Master Plan 2008 is about creating new memories by making Singapore a vibrant playground in the day and night.

One way is to develop the countryside into rural leisure spots.

Getting to know nature is one of the reasons to visit the Kranji countryside, according to farm owner Ivy Singh-Lim.

A hands-on visit also provides an avenue to escape from the bustling city and deepen the bond between family members and friends.

So she is supportive of the idea floated by urban planners to cultivate the Lim Chu Kang-Kranji area as a rural leisure spot.

Farmers say that each week, thousands of people visit their farms to learn more about the plants or to enjoy the rustic appeal of the place.

They believe such farm visits have potential to blossom into a more productive venture, offering not just leisure options but employment opportunities as well.

Mrs Singh-Lim, Bollywood Veggies owner, said: "We can have trishaw rides around here, and that would give jobs to people. We could get older school teachers who have retired to offer educational programmes for kids.

"We are also trying to create a wood workshop where they can make signs, and that's another avenue of providing work for people... I think the countryside offers great opportunities."

But she hopes such ideas will not be dampened by over-regulation. At the top of her wish list is improving transportation to the farms.

Another area that is set to get a boost is the arts scene.

National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan said: "Liveability covers a whole range of things. Here I am talking specifically about spaces for arts and culture, spaces for recreation, spaces for entertainment and night entertainment.

"New parks will be built, and we will link them to existing parks through the park connector network. We hope to be able to expand the park connector network quite extensively."

Bridges can also be used to connect various attractions and turn them into a comprehensive leisure destination.

For instance, the Alexandra Link and the Henderson Crossing will be tied up with the Southern Ridges which comprise Mount Faber, Telok Blangah Hill and Kent Ridge.

The two bridges should be ready by the end of 2007 or early 2008.

This connection will make it possible for visitors to access the chain of hills for a workout or simply to enjoy the panoramic views.

The government also hopes to work with the private sector to develop the harbour front and spice up the entertainment scene.

Already in the works are plans to add night lighting around the city and the Kallang-Bugis area. - CNA /ls

Harbourfront and Kallang basin areas have great potential.

nice lah:)

Curvy bridge.......has construction started??

Yes. => http://hyacinthus.wordpress.com/2007/09/17/southern-ridges-bridges-crossing-next-year/

Well it looks cool! Imagine walking among the canopy of trees ;)

cheers

excelsvr

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/824/pb210012aua4.jpg

Henderson Crossing

The one on top looks good and nice to walk or take a slow and relaxing stroll in the evening.

Budget Terminal was named as "Budget Terminal"

Marina Bay as Marina Bay after paying S$400,000 to a consultant.

So hottest tip, sure win bet for naming this new bridge should be "Henderson Bridge" :lol: :lol:



Highest bridge in S'pore links Mt. Faber and Telok Blangah Hill
By Hoe Yeen Nie, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 01 December 2007 2054 hrs



SINGAPORE: The highest bridge in Singapore does not have a name yet, and Singapore's Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has orgainsed a naming competition for those eager to leave their mark.

From now until the middle of January 2008, the public can visit the URA's website at www.ura.gov.sg to cast their votes.

The bridge across Henderson Road, which stands at 37 metres above ground, is Singapore's highest pedestrian bridge. Its centre portion was lifted into place just before dawn on Saturday.

The centre portion was put together in around 2.5 months, and took about five hours, at a speed of 10m per hour, for it to be lifted 37m above ground and fitted into place.

The cautious speed was due to the bridge's tilt, which meant lifting operations had to be done carefully, with engineers constantly checking the hydraulic jacks and cables.

Linking Mount Faber and Telok Blangah Hill, the bridge is part of the government's project to join the Southern Ridges.

One thing passers-by will notice about the bridge is that it has been built at an incline.

The structure is as such to accommodate the height difference between Mount Faber and Telok Blangah Hill, while allowing easy access for wheelchair users.

The bridge was mostly completed at about 5.15am on December 1. However, the pedestrian access will only be opened in February next year.

- CNA/yb

i dont think so... public tend to choose cheesy names. i voted henderson bridge or something.

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/824/pb210012aua4.jpg

Henderson Crossing

errr...i dun understand this structure. the difference in height is too great.

uh... thats under construction. it was raised to full height yesterday

uh... thats under construction. it was raised to full height yesterday

Oh. So easy to move up and down?:nuts:

lol, that i dont know, but here's what the article said:

The bridge across Henderson Road, which stands at 37 metres above ground, is Singapore's highest pedestrian bridge. Its centre portion was lifted into place just before dawn on Saturday.

The centre portion was put together in around 2.5 months, and took about five hours, at a speed of 10m per hour, for it to be lifted 37m above ground and fitted into place.

The cautious speed was due to the bridge's tilt, which meant lifting operations had to be done carefully, with engineers constantly checking the hydraulic jacks and cables.

Seriously, does everything need to have a special name?

In the end, our practical planners are going to name the place that's synonymous with the area...

The bridges look scenic enough to ride a bike or jog through... Esp now with our "cold" and windy weather these days.

errr...i dun understand this structure. the difference in height is too great.

Maybe if heirloom didn't explain you thought that pedestrians needed to jump down and them hop up again? :lol:

How about "The Dragon" - "龙" for the dragon shaped bridge @ Henderson and " The Chameleon "-or "变色龙" for bridge @Alexandra that will be lit by colour changing lights in the night?

Suggested :- Henderson "Dragon" Crossing & Alexandra "Chameleon" Walk to them. Plus suggested Cartoon "Dragon" & " Chamelon" Mascot for the two bridges - similair as the fish mascot for Sentosa's Song of the Sea

Business Idea: - A perfect location for Bungee Jump.

Maybe if heirloom didn't explain you thought that pedestrians needed to jump down and them hop up again? :lol:

i seriously thought pple need to climb down and up with ropes:lol:

i seriously thought pple need to climb down and up with ropes:lol:

So taxing! Rock climbing, then descend? :lol:

Business Idea: - A perfect location for Bungee Jump.

bungee jump and knocked down by cars

bungee jump and knocked down by cars

Maybe Bungee Jump onto the trees to pick fruits :D

Maybe Bungee Jump onto the trees to pick fruits :D

I think this bridge is going to be part of the tree top walk along the top of Pasir Panjang Hill/Bukit Chandu. As a tree top walk, there is no need to Bungee Jump if you can pick fruits off the tops of trees if there is any ..... :lol:

I think this bridge is going to be part of the tree top walk along the top of Pasir Panjang Hill/Bukit Chandu. As a tree top walk, there is no need to Bungee Jump if you can pick fruits off the tops of trees if there is any ..... :lol:

suicides will shift from mrts to tree top walks.....

Out mini Millau Viaduct

I think this bridge is going to be part of the tree top walk along the top of Pasir Panjang Hill/Bukit Chandu. As a tree top walk, there is no need to Bungee Jump if you can pick fruits off the tops of trees if there is any ..... :lol:

Maybe you see the monkeys perching precariously on the railings :D

suicides will shift from mrts to tree top walks.....

A Japanese tour guide told me that every year average 6,000 to 8,000 Japanese jump down from the cliff of Mount Fuji.

This new bridge will probably become a hotspot, but based on Singaporean's habit, they will queue up before jumping down. :lol::lol:

bungee jump and knocked down by cars

Wear helmet before jumping.

Maybe you see the monkeys perching precariously on the railings :D

Not sure if there are monkeys there but I have seen a squirrel used the tree-top walkway at Pasir Panjang Hill/Bukit Chandu to get from one tree to another tree. :)

Not sure if there are monkeys there but I have seen a squirrel used the tree-top walkway at Pasir Panjang Hill/Bukit Chandu to get from one tree to another tree. :)

I like squirrels. They are very cute. Also, they do not harm you.

A Japanese tour guide told me that every year average 6,000 to 8,000 Japanese jump down from the cliff of Mount Fuji.

This new bridge will probably become a hotspot, but based on Singaporean's habit, they will queue up before jumping down. :lol::lol:

A sure die method if you jump on Mount Fuji, just jump in the crater! The lava will burn you to ashes. Wonder what's happening to Mount Fuji? Dormant?

Mt Fuji's dormant since 1707. Better to be extinct. Can hardly imagine what will happen of the Tokyo/Yokohama/Shizuoka area if an eruption happens..

Mt Fuji's dormant since 1707. Better to be extinct. Can hardly imagine what will happen of the Tokyo/Yokohama/Shizuoka area if an eruption happens..

Hard to say, even if an volcanologist declares a volcano extinct, he may still be wrong. It happened with an Indonesian Volcano before.

Actually I think Mount Fuji looks better dormant with all the snow covering it. Can you imagine if the serene volcano erupted and the mountain turned black? :puke:

Mt Fuji's dormant since 1707. Better to be extinct. Can hardly imagine what will happen of the Tokyo/Yokohama/Shizuoka area if an eruption happens..


Based on the past records, Mount Fuji erupts every 300 years.

1707 +300 = 2007.

God Bless. Hope they have a happy white Christmas, nothing else.

Based on the past records, Mount Fuji erupts every 300 years.

1707 +300 = 2007.

God Bless. Hope they have a happy white Christmas, nothing else.

Choy choy choy! Don't want eruption!

Here's a picture of the bridge across henderson road. If I remember correctly, it will be the highest bridge in Singapore.

http://img356.imageshack.us/img356/4756/dsc00804tw0.jpg

Slightly off topic...the eatern park connector loop is completed. a good way to spend a weekend cycling the loop. With the Marina Gardens and the Southern Ridges coming up, we have some great potential sites for eco tourism.

Here's a picture of the bridge across henderson road. If I remember correctly, it will be the highest bridge in Singapore.

http://img356.imageshack.us/img356/4756/dsc00804tw0.jpg

Yes, it is the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore. It's looking great!

nice nice....

nice nice....

Yes yes :lol:

I've taken some photos of the URA Southern Ridges project.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/xtemujin/sets/72157603411143640/

The Alexandra bridge is also located near the new Hortpark. There was a Nparks GardenTech exhibition recently.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/xtemujin/sets/72157603402431696/

I've taken some photos of the URA Southern Ridges project.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/xtemujin/sets/72157603411143640/

Nice pictures! I like the one where you just have the bridge in the middle and nothing else except foliage :happy:

Thanks for the compliments.

Looks like we can only cross the Henderson bridge on February 2008.

Nice pictures! I like the one where you just have the bridge in the middle and nothing else except foliage :happy:

Highest bridge in S'pore links Mt. Faber and Telok Blangah Hill
By Hoe Yeen Nie, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 01 December 2007 2054 hrs


SINGAPORE: The highest bridge in Singapore does not have a name yet, and Singapore's Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has organised a naming competition for those eager to leave their mark.

From now until the middle of January 2008, the public can visit the URA's website at www.ura.gov.sg to cast their votes.

The bridge across Henderson Road, which stands at 37 metres above ground, is Singapore's highest pedestrian bridge. Its centre portion was lifted into place just before dawn on Saturday.

The centre portion was put together in around 2.5 months, and took about five hours, at a speed of 10m per hour, for it to be lifted 37m above ground and fitted into place.

The cautious speed was due to the bridge's tilt, which meant lifting operations had to be done carefully, with engineers constantly checking the hydraulic jacks and cables.

Linking Mount Faber and Telok Blangah Hill, the bridge is part of the government's project to join the Southern Ridges.

One thing passers-by will notice about the bridge is that it has been built at an incline.

The structure is as such to accommodate the height difference between Mount Faber and Telok Blangah Hill, while allowing easy access for wheelchair users.

The bridge was mostly completed at about 5.15am on December 1. However, the pedestrian access will only be opened in February next year.

- CNA/yb

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/314950/1/.html

Thanks for the compliments.

Looks like we can only cross the Henderson bridge on February 2008.

Well, looking on the brighter side, completion date of February 2008 isn't very far away and it is progressing stadily ;)

It's supposed to be ready by the end of 2007.

Well, I hope that the opening date will not clash with the Singapore Airshow on February 2008.

Well, looking on the brighter side, completion date of February 2008 isn't very far away and it is progressing stadily ;)

It's supposed to be ready by the end of 2007.

Well, I hope that the opening date will not clash with the Singapore Airshow on February 2008.

What to do, The Singapore Flyer actually had funding problems until ABN AMRO came along with another sponsor.

Singapore Flyer opens to public March 2008. February to March is for corporate clients.

Naming of the Southern ridges bridges.

We hope you had fun voting for your favourite bridge names and suggesting new names.

The voting between 1 Dec 07 to 15 Jan 08 is now closed. We will announce the selected names at a later date.

Thank you for your participation.



http://www.ura.gov.sg/sr_bridges/index-home.htm

I've just passed by the Bridge across Alexandra Road today and it is still not completed and construction is still going on.

I've just passed by the Bridge across Alexandra Road today and it is still not completed and construction is still going on.

one brick at a time.... one brick at a time.....

New photos of the Alexandra bridge taken on 270308(Thu).

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3149/2365674925_754d09ccbb.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2304/2366508102_24a5116990.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2175/2365673109_72b85d52e1.jpg

More photos here.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/xtemujin/sets/72157603411143640/

I'm not sure when will it be complete.

New photos of the Alexandra bridge taken on 270308(Thu).

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3149/2365674925_754d09ccbb.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2304/2366508102_24a5116990.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2175/2365673109_72b85d52e1.jpg

More photos here.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/xtemujin/sets/72157603411143640/

I'm not sure when will it be complete.

Is this the section near Gillman Village? Looks futuristic!!

Is this the section near Gillman Village? Looks futuristic!!


Unreal and amazing, though that it was artist impression or what when I first viewed it.

Well done. :applause:

Legs very itchy already, looking forward to be the first one to use the bridge. :lol::lol:

Yes, that's the bridge near the Gillman Village.

The project completion date signboard has been removed.

Nothing official from URA about the opening date for the pathway.

HTH.

Is this the section near Gillman Village? Looks futuristic!!

It looks like it has been CGI-ed.

White will get dirty or not.

Looks really cool...finally the infrastructure is in place to allow one to lose yourself all the way from Mt Faber to Alexandra and beyond.
The Gillman Village area should also be given more promotional injection to draw people to explore this 'new' area.

Maybe they should plant creepers on the bridges.

Jungle walkway from Alexandra Road up to Telok Blangah Hill park.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2271/2376090929_24f8302c4f.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2243/2376928368_864e078cb4.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2258/2376927074_3061eb0f07.jpg

End point of jungle walkway at the top of Telok Blangah Hill park.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3279/2376994472_82ba36418d.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3143/2376163109_f16ac4f2ce.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2269/2376089199_459c0b92cc.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2025/2376158675_3846aa32c4.jpg

More photos in my flickr album.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/xtemujin/sets/72157603411143640/

Lighting test on Alexandra Link (aka my suggested name:- Alexandra Chameleon Walk ) was carried out yesterday night. Any one has night photos to share?


亚历山大路“彩虹”乍现

（2008-04-04）


● 陈福洲（摄）
夜幕低垂，横跨亚历山大路的巨型行人天桥突然亮起，为路过的驾车者带来惊喜。粉红色和蓝色的灯光衬托它的优美曲线，仿佛夜空中突然出现一道美丽的彩虹。

　　这座设计别具一格的行人天桥是亚历山大连道（Alexandra Link）的一部分，有关当局昨晚进行试灯。衔接亚历山大公园和直落布兰雅山的亚历山大连道在前年4月动工，包括1.6公里长的空中步道及横跨亚历山大路的80公尺行人天桥。

　　空中步道依山而建，是南部山脊走廊的一部分，从亚历山大路延伸到直落布兰雅山的西部山峰，最高处有20层到25层楼高。

　　南部山脊走廊（Southern Ridges）是市区重建局耗资1500万元的发展计划，它还包括亨德申行人天桥（Henderson　Crossing）和花柏山径。

It looks like it has been CGI-ed.

White will get dirty or not.

yea. looks CGI. Hope it will not get dirty.

Anyone knows if there'll be an official opening for the URA Southern Ridges next month ?

TREE'S COMPANY
By Crystal Chan

April 07, 2008

THE curvy form of the bridge has been a familiar sight to those travelling along Alexandra Road near Depot Road.

It holds the promise of nature walks that could take you from Kent Ridge Park near the National University of Singapore to Telok Blangah Hill Park to Mount Faber Park, and finally, even HarbourFront MRT Station if you are game.

Workers were still putting the finishing touches to the bridge last week.

But next month(May 2008), that 80m-long bridge, officially named Alexandra Link, is expected to come alive as it opens to the public, along with the other park connectors for all three parks.

SOUTHERN RIDGES

The Southern Ridges, as the hilly parks are collectively called, stretches about 9km.

For those who work and live in the south-western part of Singapore, Alexandra Link, together with Henderson Crossing - also getting its finishing touches - opens the gateway to nature trails for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as the disabled for exercise and leisure.

Residents in the area who spoke to The New Paper on Sunday were excited at the completion of the two bridges, which took about two years to build.

Referring to the HSBC Treetop Walk, accountant Adeline Tan, 26, said: 'Soon, we'll have our very own treetop walk without having to go to MacRitchie Reservoir.

'It beats having to drive to the Lornie Road area.'

ELEVATED WALKWAY

Alexandra Link, touted to be able to handle mass events such as walkathons, is joined to a 1.6km long meandering elevated walkway that eventually leads you to Telok Blangah Hill Park (see map below).

The elevated walkway is without steps and designed to hug the steep slopes, allowing the elderly and disabled to travel the distance at ease.

For the fitter types who prefer a more challenging climb off the walkways, there are trails that go up to an elevation of about 70m (or about 21 storeys).

The second connector, Henderson Crossing, links Telok Blangah Hill Park to Mount Faber with a 270m-long bridge over Henderson Road.

In addition, an 800m-long foot trail is being constructed that takes visitors from Mount Faber to the HarbourFront MRT Station.

The project to link the parks were first announced in 2002, and a competition was held to select designers for the project.

For those who prefer moonlit walks and twinkling views of the city and harbour, the bridges - which boast wave-like designs - will also be lit after dark to add to the nightscape.

http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/news/story/0,4136,161338,00.html

Well, the official opening of the Southern Ridges was not made public.


PM Lee opens new pedestrian bridges and Hort Park at Southern Ridges
By Wong Siew Ying, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 10 May 2008 1826 hrs

SINGAPORE: You can now take a 9-kilometre walk from Mount Faber to Telok Blangah Hill and Kent Ridge Park. The three hills are collectively known as the Southern Ridges and they are linked by two new pedestrian bridges and a walkway, which were opened on Saturday by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

PM Lee said the Southern Ridges is part of the country's effort to transform itself into a city of gardens and water.

As Singapore's economy and population continues to grow, Mr Lee assured that the government will strive to provide the highest quality of life possible for all residents.

PM Lee said: "I think quite a lot of Singaporeans worry that our quality of life will suffer, that there won't be enough space for all of us. And they ask, “Is our little island getting too crowded, will we lose our sense of comfort of space and greenery?” My answer is we will continue to provide a first class living environment for all Singaporeans. We have done quite well in this respect and we will build on this to do better."

That means making water ways and greenery more accessible to the public.

Mr Lee continued: "We will build a park connector from the Alexandra Arch, along Alexandra Road to Labrador Park. We will link up to a mangrove boardwalk at Berlayer Creek, with its rich biodiversity. And eventually connect to a waterfront broad walk from Bukit Chermin all the way to Vivocity."

Cheong Koon Hean, CEO, Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), said: "You are literally walking on the boardwalk with the sea on your right and you can see Sentosa and it will go all the way in front of Labrador Park and also Reflections and then you reach VivoCity. With that, the entire southern ridges will be fully connected. It will be a totally different experience."

The URA first announced its plans to link the Southern Ridges to the parks as part of its Identity Plan in 2002.

And it was widely supported, garnering a 93 per cent endorsement from Singaporeans in a survey.

An online public poll was conducted earlier this year to decide on the names of the two bridges. And Henderson Waves and Alexandra Arch were selected from among 11 options.

Mr Lee later toured the US$13 million horticultural park or HortPark off Alexandra Road.

The 23-hectare park is Southeast Asia's first one-stop gardening and lifestyle hub. It plans to attract one million visitors a year. -CNA/vm

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/346857/1/.html

May 11, 2008
Two new bridges = a 9km scenic walk
Telok Blangah Hill Park now linked with Mount Faber, Kent Ridge Park
By Teo Cheng Wee

The wet morning yesterday did not dampen the excitement of Telok Blangah resident Habib Ismail.

http://www.straitstimes.com/STI/STIMEDIA/image/20080510/ST_IMAGES_CWPARK.jpg
Spanning 274m across Henderson Road, the 36m-high wave-shaped Henderson Waves is Singapore's highest pedestrain bridge. The other bridge, Alexandra Arch, is located in Alexandra Road. -- ST PHOTO: ASHLEIGH SIM

He was among 500 residents who watched Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong officially open two pedestrian bridges - Henderson Waves and Alexandra Arch.

With these bridges, Telok Blangah Hill Park is now linked to Mount Faber on one side and Kent Ridge Park on the other.

An avid walker, Mr Habib, 44, a father of two, joined Mr Lee and the other residents on a tour of the bridges.

The bridges complete a 9km chain of greenery in the Southern Ridges, which consist primarily of three large hill parks - Mount Faber, Telok Blangah Hill Park and Kent Ridge Park.

Henderson Waves, at a height of 36m, is Singapore's highest pedestrian bridge. A wave-shaped, steel-and-timber structure, it spans 274m across Henderson Road. The other bridge, Alexandra Arch, spans 80m across Alexandra Road.

The parks were previously separated by roads and wooded vegetation. Now, one can walk ridge-to-ridge, starting from HarbourFront MRT and ending at West Coast Park.

In 2002, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) said it would link up parks in the Southern Ridges as part of the Parks and Waterbodies and Identity Plans.

The project, which took two years to complete, cost $25.5 million.

Apart from the two bridges, the Southern Ridges now also boast the Forest Walk, a 1.3km-long elevated walkway that cuts through secondary forest at Telok Blangah Hill Park; and Marang Trail, which links HarbourFront MRT to Mount Faber.

Mr Lee also officiated the opening of the $13 million Horticulture Park - or HortPark for short.

With 20 theme gardens, HortPark is South-east Asia's first one-stop gardening and lifestyle hub.

The 23ha park, which has been open since December last year, took two years to build and also serves as a park connector between Telok Blangah Hill Park and Kent Ridge Park.

In his speech, Mr Lee noted that such projects 'provide a first-class living environment for all Singaporeans'.

He also announced upcoming plans to link the Southern Ridges to the Keppel Waterfront as part of a broader plan to develop a recreational and leisure hub in the south.

This includes having a park connector from Alexandra Arch to Labrador Park, building a mangrove boardwalk at Berlayer Creek and having a waterfront boardwalk that connects Bukit Chermin to VivoCity, with waterfront views along the entire stretch of Keppel Bay.

Details of these plans will be released soon, the URA said.

About 1 million visitors to the Southern Ridges are expected annually, and with the bridges open 24 hours a day, lovebirds might be expected to make a beeline for them after dark, especially as Henderson Waves offers panoramic views of the city and southern islands.

Mr Habib, a senior research supervisor, had stopped his daily jogs at Telok Blangah Hill Park due to work commitments. He is digging out his sneakers again.

'I'm making plans to walk along the new walk with friends,' he said with a smile.

chengwee@sph.com.sg

Copyright © 2007 Singapore Press Holdings. All rights reserved.

9km wor...i need a bicycle.

Think cycling ain't allowed.

I'll wait for the cold and windy months to walk this 9km. Right now? No way.

I hope to see the alexandra park connector, which leads all the way from the s'pore river, connect to the southern ridges. it's a pity it now ends near the queenstown mrt.

I hope to see the alexandra park connector, which leads all the way from the s'pore river, connect to the southern ridges. it's a pity it now ends near the queenstown mrt.

What's more, in order to walk from Queenstown MRT to Singapore River (Kim Seng Park), you'll have to cross many roads, a potential hazard for joggers... but from Kim Seng Park, you don't have to cross a single road to get to Marina Bay. The canal between the end of the Alexandra Connector Park to Kim Seng Park is dirty. A lot of things have to be done to beautify the place.

Think cycling ain't allowed.

I'll wait for the cold and windy months to walk this 9km. Right now? No way.

You can try walking at 6am or 7am in the morning, before the sun gets in your way. I can cover 9km in 1 and a half hour at a very comfortable brisk walking pace so even if you start at 7am, you'll be done by 8:30am... only problem is now you'll have to walk all the way back...

The question is, would people walk?

The question is, would people walk?

You'll be amazed... just try to take a walk one day and you'll be greeted by many others...

Agree.. Would like to walk the entire length this sunday.. hope for a cool weather!

The portion of the Alexandra Canal park connector from Queenstown to Dawson has recently been opened. It is indeed a pleasant alternative to walking along the main road. I saw that it was quite well used already and will be even more pleasant once the plants mature. It is a great project IMO.

I hope to see the alexandra park connector, which leads all the way from the s'pore river, connect to the southern ridges. it's a pity it now ends near the queenstown mrt.

Looks like this is in the works.

New connectors to link Southern Ridges to waterfront

14 May 08

A SERIES of connections will provide a seamless link at the Southern Ridges from Alexandra Road to the waterfront at Bukit Chermin, the Urban Redevelopment Authority announced on Wednesday.
Along the way, visitors can take in the greenery and rustic charm of the mangrove areas of Berlayer Creek, and the waterfront views at Bukit Chermin.

The Labrador Nature and Coastal Walk was first announced last Saturday by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at the official opening of the two pedestrian bridges - Henderson Waves and Alexandra Arch - at the Southern Ridges.

URA said the plan is in line with its efforts to further enhance the attractiveness of Singapore's Southern Ridges and southern waterfront as yet another leisure and recreation destination for Singaporeans and visitors.

The Labrador Nature and Coastal Walk will offer three distinctive experiences:


Alexandra Road Garden Trail
Berlayer Creek Mangrove Trail; and
Bukit Chermin Harbour View Walk

'When completed, the Labrador Nature and Coastal Walk will not only open up stretches of inaccessible coastline for the public's enjoyment, but also link up the attractions in the Southern Ridges and the southern waterfront to form a comprehensive recreational corridor,' said the URA.

'The project will allow visitors seamless connectivity while enjoying a variety of recreational activities.'

Visitors can enjoy scenic hilltop and nature walks across Mount Faber, Telok Blangah Hill and Kent Ridge Park, wine and dine at the food and beverage outlets at Gillman Village, explore the Berlayer mangrove creek, and take in the views of the Keppel Bay enroute to Harbourfront.

Said Mrs Cheong Koon Hean, Chief Executive Officer of URA: 'The Labrador Nature and Coastal Walk, when completed, will allow us to better appreciate some of the very special places on our island that were previously not accessible.

'Together with the earlier completed links at Henderson Waves and Alexandra Arch at the Southern Ridges, this new project will further realise our plans to create a memorable experience for Singaporeans and visitors in this part of Singapore.'

Construction for the Labrador Nature and Coastal Walk is scheduled to start in 2009 and it is expected to be completed in 2011.

The 830 metre Alexandra Road Garden Trail will stretch along the eastern bank of Alexandra Road between Depot Road and Telok Blangah Road.

It will be well connected to the Southern Ridges recreational corridor and the HortPark. The nearby Gillman Village and the recently completed Alexandra Arch will also act as attractions for the users of the park connector.

In line with the Garden Trail concept, footpaths and cycle paths will meander around the matured roadside trees along Alexandra Road, and special landscaping such as flowering shrubs will add interest to the walk. There will also be rest points and information centres along the trail.

The second segment of the project is the 960 metre Berlayer Creek Mangrove Trail. Berlayer Creek is one of the few mangrove areas located in the southern part of Singapore and in close proximity to the city area.

The proposed mangrove trail will offer urbanites a quiet nature retreat from the busy city life and the opportunity to enjoy the natural charm of the mangrove.

The Bukit Chermin trail will culminate at the 330 metre Bukit Chermin Harbour View Walk proposed at the mouth of Berlayer Creek.

This elevated boardwalk on sea will skirt around the foothill of Bukit Chermin, and connect to the future promenade of the Reflections at Keppel Bay condominium eastwards and Labrador Park westwards. Rest points along the boardwalk will allow visitors to soak in the beautiful southern waterfront views of Keppel Harbour and Sentosa.

A New Playground in the South

The Southern Ridges, Labrador area and Keppel waterfront will collectively form a major recreational and leisure destination at the southern part of Singapore.

Two attractive linkages at the Southern Ridges - Henderson Waves and Alexandra Arch and their connecting elevated walkway - are now open to the public.

Visitors can take a seamless stroll from HarbourFront MRT station all the way to Kent Ridge Park through a series of other interesting trails.

Mount Faber, a key node within the Southern Ridges, has also been revamped to cater for better facilities such as restaurants and eateries while developments along the Keppel waterfront such as St James Power Station, VivoCity and Harbourfront Centre have anchored the waterfront as a leisure and vibrant commercial centre.

^^ yes I saw that article, but it seems all the action is focused towards the sea, but not inland to connect to the housing estates and make it easier or even encourage residents to come out into the outdoors. I understand east coast park is well conected all the way to bishan park! Yes, i know someone who actually jogs between the 2 through a series of park connectors. I certainly wish i could cycle from queenstown all the way to the coast.

Labrador Park and other beautiful coastal stretches like Bukit Chermin should be made more accessible. The southern coastline of Singapore is actually comparatively scenic but under appreciated and inaccessible. Hence I believe this is the first stage.

Eventually the Park Connector network would spread further into the estates. Suitable roads of sufficient width and mature vegetation would likely be the new links. Alexandra Road is one such major linkage.

It should be possible to navigate from Queenstown all the way to Marina Bay via the canal park and riverside promenade.

It should be possible to navigate from Queenstown all the way to Marina Bay via the canal park and riverside promenade.

yes, you can walk from Queenstown to Marina Bay and you can even continue walking up Kallang River all the way to National Stadium... that's before numerous construction blocked off most of that part of the Kallang River... sigh...

Its temporary inconvenience (the part at Kallang) I guess, with something to look forward to when completed. But the construction of the Sports Hub will convert the entire scene into a massive construction site.

btw have you tried the new Alexandra Linear Canal Park that was opened late last year? I managed to visit it and take a few pics...its not bad :)

Its temporary inconvenience (the part at Kallang) I guess, with something to look forward to when completed. But the construction of the Sports Hub will convert the entire scene into a massive construction site.

btw have you tried the new Alexandra Linear Canal Park that was opened late last year? I managed to visit it and take a few pics...its not bad :)

Yes I have, almost a weekly affair... especially with all the blockages at Marina Bay, but since I walk very early on Sunday mornings, I can't really take a lot of pics but I'll try again this Sunday! The park is nice but its still very young, if you know what I mean...

yeah...many of the trees are still saplings, but I think the potential is there. I was rather impressed with the concept of a continuous pedestrian linkage from Queenstown to Boat Quay and beyond. Will be nice to have some pics...I'll post some of my pics when I can...

I've added new photos in my Flickr album.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/xtemujin/sets/72157603411143640/

maybe, a southern ridge walk for Skyscrapercity members? :D

residents of the southern ridge...

http://img50.imageshack.us/img50/3011/28062008440ej3.jpg

http://img50.imageshack.us/img50/9584/28062008439lu1.jpg

hehe... I saw them at the Henderson Wave. never seen monkeys in this area before.

were they "transported" here :D

hehe... I saw them at the Henderson Wave. never seen monkeys in this area before.

were they "transported" here :D

I don't know but I think they are natives there... I've seen lots squirrels too but they are trickier to capture on my mobile phone... unlike the monkeys, they will not post for you... anyways, I do my morning walks there every weekend but only saw the monkeys last week... can you see the squirrel in this picture...?

http://img107.imageshack.us/img107/2793/21062008404wf5.jpg

Now NEA or Nparks will get more busy...

can you see the squirrel in this picture...?


Yes perched on the railing :)
Its surprising how well-behaved the animals seem, they dont appear to be afraid of humans.

Yes perched on the railing :)
Its surprising how well-behaved the animals seem, they dont appear to be afraid of humans.

the monkeys are very fierce... they showed me their wide open mouth and teeth, signaling me to stay away from them...

^^

bad attitude :lol:

maybe theyre out looking for food from people, although I believe feeding them is an offence...

well, there are signboards that tell people not to feed the monkeys... if people were to feed the moneys, the monkeys will expect to be fed and if they don't get what they expect, they will start attacking joggers and passer-bys...

another place that has lots of monkeys is the far ends of Rifle Range Road...

I've been up and down the forest walkway for a few years and have seen only squirrel and not monkeys.

There's a possibility that the monkeys are from the Mount Faber forest area and have used the Henderson Waves to get to the forest walkway area.

I'm surprised we don't have a dedicated Henderson Waves page? IMHO it's easily the best-looking bridge in Singapore. A few snaps:

http://jpatokal.iki.fi/photo/travel/Singapore/SouthernRidges/HendersonWaves_Jogger_BW.JPG
http://jpatokal.iki.fi/photo/travel/Singapore/SouthernRidges/HendersonWaves_Waves.JPG
http://jpatokal.iki.fi/photo/travel/Singapore/SouthernRidges/HendersonWaves_TallWave.JPG
http://jpatokal.iki.fi/photo/travel/Singapore/SouthernRidges/HendersonWaves_Pod.JPG
http://jpatokal.iki.fi/photo/travel/Singapore/SouthernRidges/HendersonWaves_Side.JPG

More of the bridge and the rest of the Southern Ridges here (http://jpatokal.iki.fi/photo/travel/Singapore/SouthernRidges/).

it is truly a remarkable masterpiece. should brindge it to world forum. One of the best bridges for human i ever seen.

wahh...they timber deck the entire stretch of the "wave" bridge...

quite costly... but of coz..looks damn good

a landmark indeed for a for a good cause

I agree. I think there is only one of its kind in the world.