An empty viaduct space under Toa Payoh South Flyover has been transformed into a new community space specially for residents’ recreational use. The estimated 1,911 sq m site at Tai Gin Road has been fitted with a hard court, barrier-free access footpaths, lighting, water and electricity points as well as fencing for a dog run park. The development of the new community space by the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) was done in consultation with Toa Payoh West-Balestier Citizens’ Consultative Committee (CCC) to ensure that the formerly unused area transforms into what residents hope to see in the new and vibrant community space.

2 This initiative follows the launch of Viaduct@JBM in April 2017 with the conversion of land under Bukit Merah Flyover into a multi-functional community space. SLA had also fitted out and launched the land under West Coast Flyover in January 2017 to facilitate the piloting of new concepts. It is currently tenanted for short-term use as Singapore’s first sheltered archery range. “We are constantly looking into innovative ways to optimise State land and properties. SLA will continue to study and identify more land under flyovers for suitable uses and where feasible, build supporting infrastructure for the proposed uses to benefit our community,” said Mr Tan Boon Khai, Chief Executive of SLA.

3 To celebrate the launch of Our Space @ Tai Gin on Saturday, 24 Mar 2018, a series of exciting activities, organised by the Toa Payoh West-Balestier CCC (TW-B CCC) have been lined up for residents to participate in. Pet owners can take part in the pet contests such as “Well-Groomed” and “Obedience” where they can meet other like-minded neighbours and make new friends. There will also be a pet adoption drive for residents. Professional pet groomers, veterinarians and animal trainers will also be present at the event to conduct informative sharing sessions for pet lovers to learn about basic pet care and grooming. Moving forward, residents will also have the opportunity to participate in ad-hoc outdoor courses and various activities, such as inline skating and line dancing organised by the Ah Hood Gardens Residents’ Committee (RC) at this new community space.

4 Grassroots Adviser to Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC Grassroots Organisations and Senior Minister of State for Health and Communications & Information Mr Chee Hong Tat said, “The creation of a dog run is a result of feedback and consultation with residents. It provides a common space for dog owners to socialise and interact with other like-minded neighbours. This adaptive reuse of land under the flyover is the result of the Government agencies and Grassroots organisations working together to maximise land resources and to create a new recreational space for the residents to enjoy.”