The Housing and Development Board (HDB) announced plans to redevelop Tanglin Halt, one of Singapore’s oldest public housing estates, located in Queenstown. When fully developed, the project will offer up to 5,500 new flats, revitalizing the historic area with modern housing and facilities. The redevelopment will take place in two phases, starting in 2024.

The new flats are expected to be launched under the Prime Location Housing (PLH) model, which will attract homebuyers due to its central location and integrated offerings, such as a hawker centre, market, and polyclinic. The site will also feature amenities that make it ideal for families and individuals alike.

The development will take place at the site of the former Tanglin Halt Neighbourhood Centre, which includes the Commonwealth Drive Food Centre and Tanglin Halt Market. According to the Senior Minister of State for National Development, Tan Kiat How, the redevelopment is part of a broader effort to rejuvenate Queenstown.

According to Huttons Asia, the new blocks of flats at the integrated development could exceed 40 storeys, offering a variety of flat sizes from two-room flexi to four-room units. Prices for the flats are estimated to range from S$550,000 to S$720,000, depending on the size and location within the project.

The redevelopment will be carried out in phases to minimize disruption to the existing market and stallholders. The first phase, starting in 2024, will see the construction of a new hawker centre and market on the site of the former Commonwealth Drive Food Centre. Once completed, stallholders will relocate, allowing the second phase to begin.

Efforts will be made to preserve Tanglin Halt’s history and heritage, including retaining iconic architectural elements such as the hexagonal shape of the former Commonwealth Drive Food Centre and the distinctive barrel vault shape of the Tanglin Halt Market. Additionally, the new buildings near the Rail Corridor will be capped at 10 storeys to honor the estate’s original design.

The redevelopment will complement broader efforts to enhance Queenstown with more housing, greenery, and improved connectivity, while preserving its rich heritage. Government agencies are also considering repurposing historically significant buildings, such as Blocks 69 and 70, for communal uses.