Future of work in the West

“Work in the West” under the URA (Urban Redevelopment Authority) Master Plan 2019 is a significant component of Singapore’s broader strategy to decentralize economic activity, reduce congestion in the Central Business District (CBD), and bring jobs closer to where people live. This initiative focuses on transforming the western part of Singapore into a vibrant employment hub, particularly through the development of the Jurong Lake District, Jurong Innovation District, and Tuas Port.

Key Areas and Developments in “Work in the West”:

1. Jurong Lake District:
– Second Central Business District (CBD): The Jurong Lake District (JLD) is envisioned as Singapore’s second CBD. Spanning 360 hectares, it is set to become the largest commercial and regional center outside the existing CBD, offering a mix of office spaces, retail, and residential developments. JLD is strategically located with strong connectivity via the Jurong East MRT interchange, linking the North-South and East-West MRT lines, and the future Jurong Region Line and Cross Island Line.
– Commercial and Mixed-Use Developments: The JLD will host a range of commercial and mixed-use developments, providing businesses with high-quality office spaces and employees with easy access to amenities and public transport. The area will also feature a vibrant mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options.
– Smart and Sustainable District: JLD is designed to be a smart and sustainable district, leveraging technology and data analytics to optimize urban services, energy use, and traffic management. It will also incorporate green building standards and extensive green spaces, aligning with Singapore’s environmental sustainability goals.

2. Jurong Innovation District (JID):
– Hub for Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation: Located to the north of the Jurong Lake District, the Jurong Innovation District (JID) is being developed as a hub for advanced manufacturing, research and development (R&D), and innovation. It aims to bring together a mix of industries, academia, and startups, fostering collaboration and innovation.
– Cluster of Future Industries: JID will be home to companies involved in key sectors such as robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart logistics. The district will provide state-of-the-art infrastructure to support these industries, including research facilities, innovation labs, and high-tech production spaces.
– Educational and Research Institutions: JID will benefit from its proximity to educational and research institutions, such as Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and other research centers, fostering close collaboration between academia and industry to drive innovation and the commercialization of new technologies.

3. Tuas Port and Industrial Zone:
– Next-Generation Port: Tuas Port, when fully operational, will be one of the world’s largest automated container ports. This development is a critical component of Singapore’s strategy to maintain its position as a leading global maritime hub. The port will feature advanced automation and digitalization technologies, enhancing efficiency and productivity.
– Integration with Industrial Activities: Tuas Port will be closely integrated with the surrounding industrial areas, creating synergies between port operations, logistics, and manufacturing. This will attract businesses involved in shipping, logistics, and trade-related industries to the western region.
– Expansion of Industrial Spaces: The surrounding areas in Tuas will see an expansion of industrial spaces to accommodate the growth of advanced manufacturing, logistics, and other heavy industries. These areas will be developed with modern infrastructure to support high-tech industrial activities.

4. Tengah and CleanTech Park:
– Tengah Town: Tengah, Singapore’s first smart and sustainable town, will also contribute to the “Work in the West” initiative by providing a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. Tengah will focus on sustainability, with green building designs, smart technologies, and eco-friendly practices integrated throughout the town.
– CleanTech Park: Located adjacent to the Jurong Innovation District, CleanTech Park is Singapore’s first eco-business park, designed to host companies focused on clean technologies and sustainable solutions. The park offers a conducive environment for R&D in green technologies, with energy-efficient buildings, lush green spaces, and water-sensitive urban design features.

5. Enhanced Connectivity:
– Transport Infrastructure: The development of new MRT lines, such as the Jurong Region Line and the Cross Island Line, will significantly enhance connectivity within the western region. These lines will provide seamless connections between residential areas, employment hubs, and the rest of Singapore, making it easier for people to live and work in the west.
– Road Improvements: Ongoing road improvements and expansions will support the increased industrial and commercial activities in the western region. This includes enhancements to major expressways such as the Pan-Island Expressway (PIE), Ayer Rajah Expressway (AYE), and the development of new roads to improve accessibility to key areas like Jurong Lake District and Tuas Port.

6. Supporting Infrastructure and Amenities:
– Residential Developments: To support the growing workforce in the west, new residential developments will be introduced, offering a range of housing options. These residential areas will be well-integrated with commercial and industrial zones, reducing commute times and enhancing work-life balance.
– Community and Recreational Facilities: The Master Plan includes the development of community spaces, parks, and recreational facilities to improve the quality of life for residents and workers in the western region. These amenities will ensure that the west remains a desirable place to live, work, and play.

Vision and Goals

The “Work in the West” initiative under the URA Master Plan 2019 aims to create a self-sufficient and vibrant region that offers ample employment opportunities, high-quality living environments, and world-class infrastructure. By decentralizing economic activity and focusing on innovation and sustainability, the plan seeks to position the western part of Singapore as a key driver of the nation’s future growth. The integration of commercial, industrial, and residential developments, along with enhanced connectivity, will ensure that the west becomes a thriving hub for businesses and a desirable location for residents.

Novo Place is close to both Jurong Lake District (JLD) and Jurong Innovation District (JID), offering future residents a workplace that is nearer to home.

Source: URA