Singapore's Tanjong Pagar railway station to become an events venue?
Don't let this be the end of Singapore's Tanjong Pagar railway station; have a say in its future. When Singapore's historic Tanjong Pagar railway station closed its gates on June 30, 2011, the question on everyone's mind was: what happens next?
According to a report by Channel News Asia (CNA), authorities are considering using the former station as an events venue, and possibly allowing site tours to be conducted.
The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) told CNA that it would work with relevant authorities to consider suitable uses for Tanjong Pagar and its sister station, Bukit Timah.
"As for the interim use of the Spooner Road apartments (former quarters) and the two railway stations (Bukit Timah and Tanjong Pagar), URA will work with relevant agencies to consider suitable uses," stated a URA spokesman.
"The idea to use part of Tanjong Pagar Railway Station as an events venue and to allow tour groups to visit the building can be considered together with other possible interim uses for the building."
The station represents one of Singapore's most iconic historical structures.
Since its closure, some 40 percent of railway tracks have already been dismantled, the former workers' quarters vacated, and the surrounding land laid bare.
More than just a station, it once housed a hotel that was frequented by Malaysian royalty. A bustling local food spot with food stalls that have been passed from grandfather to grandson, the station also marked the end and start point of a 20-kilometer "green corridor" that stretched from Tanjong Pagar to Woodlands.
A series of public consultations have gone out on how the area can be best utilized; a draft masterplan is scheduled to be ready by 2013.
Members of public keen to offer suggestions can do so at www.ura.gov.sg/railcorridor/uservoice_landing.html.
An exhibition -- "Re-imagining the Rail Corridor" -- at the URA Centre Gallery (45 Maxwell Road, +65 6221 6666) will run till October 28.
What do you think the Tanjong Pagar Railway Station should become? Tell us what you think.
