The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) is gearing up to transform areas across Singapore with new mixed-use and residential developments near MRT stations. With the latest proposed changes to the URA Master Plan 2019, Hougang, Newton, Mount Pleasant, and Lakeside are set to see a surge in both housing and commercial opportunities. These developments are strategically positioned to offer convenience, amenities, and enhanced urban connectivity for future residents.
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Hougang MRT Station development
A significant development is being planned for the vacant land above Hougang MRT station. Here, a large 4.7-hectare site will host a mixed-use complex that combines both residential and commercial spaces, as well as a new bus interchange. This site is expected to enhance housing options and provide valuable amenities for residents.
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According to the URA’s Master Plan amendment, the 4.7ha plot has a gross plot ratio of 2.5, which could allow for a total gross floor area of up to 117,500 square metres. The development is composed of two plots. The first is a 4-hectare lot designated for commercial and residential use, with a plot ratio of 3, while the smaller reserve plot currently hosts the Hougang HDB Branch office.
The location is directly above Hougang MRT Station, which serves the North East Line and will connect to the Cross Island Line when it opens in 2030. Its location, combined with excellent transport links, is expected to drive demand for housing. Nearby, two additional plots are also zoned for housing. The larger, 3-hectare plot south of the mixed-use site could provide between 750 and 800 HDB flats or around 1,000 condo units. Meanwhile, a third plot might offer about 1,200 HDB flats or over 1,550 condo units, highlighting the area’s potential to accommodate a sizable new community.
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Mount Pleasant estate
Mount Pleasant estate is also on the URA’s radar for future housing development. Approximately 5,000 homes are planned across six Build-To-Order (BTO) projects, with the first project set for launch in 2025. This development aims to provide a range of housing options to meet growing demand in the city.
In this recent Master Plan amendment, two plots were added to the estate. The first plot, covering 2.7 hectares with a plot ratio of 3.2, could accommodate around 900 to 1,000 HDB flats or 1,300 condos. The second plot, spanning 3.2 hectares with a plot ratio of 4.9, could hold between 1,200 and 1,400 flats or as many as 1,800 private apartments. Future residents in this area will have access to Mount Pleasant MRT Station on the Thomson-East Coast Line, ensuring seamless travel options.
The estate will be designed to offer various amenities, such as shops and childcare facilities. In addition, parts of the Old Police Academy, including six heritage buildings, will be preserved, with one planned to operate as a neighbourhood police post. This combination of modern conveniences and historical preservation is set to make Mount Pleasant an attractive location for new residents.
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Newton residential site
In Newton, a new high-density residential site covering 0.57 hectares has been designated for development. This plot has a gross plot ratio of 4.9, potentially allowing for the construction of around 270 to 320 condo units. The Newton area is widely known for its upscale appeal and prime location, which is anticipated to attract buyers looking for private homes in central Singapore.
The site is conveniently positioned near the North-South and Downtown MRT lines, offering residents easy access to other parts of the city. The plot is partially occupied by the Prudential @ Scotts office building, which will be vacated by April 2025, allowing for new development to proceed.
Due to its central location and excellent connectivity, the Newton site is well-aligned with the high demand for diverse housing options in Singapore’s core urban areas.
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Lakeside Drive site
A 1.4-hectare site near Lakeside MRT has also been earmarked for Lucerne Grand development. This site, with a gross plot ratio of 3.6, is being prepared for residential use, with plans for commercial spaces on the ground floor. The project launch date is expected to fall in late Q3 or early Q4 2026.
The location’s proximity to Lakeside MRT and Jurong Lake Gardens adds further appeal, offering potential residents the convenience of transport and the benefits of green spaces. The upcoming project also provides amenities like a childcare centre and a supermarket. With recent collective sales in nearby areas, there has been strong interest from developers, positioning this Lakeside plot as one of the last major development opportunities within 300 metres of the MRT.
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Public consultation and timeline
For these major development projects, the URA has invited public feedback on the proposed amendments. The consultation period is open until November 12 for the Hougang and Mount Pleasant sites, and until November 27 for the Newton and Lakeside sites. This step allows for community involvement in shaping the future of these prominent areas and ensures that the developments align with public needs and expectations.
Analyst insights
Analysts are predicting robust demand for these new developments, especially due to their strategic locations near MRT stations. It has been suggested that the units in Mount Pleasant may be classified as Plus flats, benefiting from MRT proximity and attractive amenities. Furthermore, the Lakeside site, likely to be released under the Government Land Sales Programme in December, is expected to attract several bids, highlighting the high demand for new condos in the area.
In summary, the URA’s Master Plan amendments underscore Singapore’s commitment to sustainable urban growth by integrating housing, transport, and commercial facilities in central, well-connected areas.
Which of these plans are you most interested in? Share your thoughts in the comments section below or on our Facebook page.
About Sophiyanah David
Sophi, a seasoned copywriter specialising in Singaporean real estate and property, is one of the minds behind 99.co's informative articles. Like her colleagues at 99.co, Sophi is dedicated to keeping you informed about the ever-changing world of real estate so you can find your forever home. When off the clock, you can find her giggling and kicking her feet as she reads her romance novels, watching anime - if FMBA is not your fave, she might fight you (but you'll probably win) and looking up latest skincare trends.
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