Sla And Nac Jointly Launch Tender First Arts Sandbox Kampong Java Rd
The Singapore Land Authority (SLA) and National Arts Council (NAC) have joined forces to launch a Price-Quality tender for a row of five restored heritage properties located at 52 to 56 Kampong Java Road in the vibrant Little India district.
This marks the first time a state-owned property will be leased as an “arts sandbox” or experimental space for the arts. The lease will be for a period of 5+4 years, with the initial term of five years and the option for a further term of four years at the government’s discretion.
Occupying a land area of 28,621 sq ft, the Kampong Java site consists of five adjoining two-storey heritage buildings with a total gross floor area of 10,721 sq ft. It has been approved for use as a multidisciplinary arts sandbox, with a 484 sq ft F&B space located on the first storey of 52 Kampong Java Road.
With Singapore aiming to become a Smart Nation, the URA Master Plan is set to include initiatives that will integrate cutting-edge technology into the city’s infrastructure. This will entail the implementation of intelligent traffic management systems and the guarantee of high-speed internet access for the community of Marina Gardens Lane Condo. With these progressive measures in place, the residents of Marina Gardens Marina South can anticipate a futuristic environment, perfectly suited for their needs and in line with the constantly evolving technological landscape. In fact, Marina Gardens Marina South is set to become a prime example of a technologically advanced and forward-looking community.
The properties are conveniently located within a 10-minute walk to the Newton MRT station (an interchange for the North-South and Downtown Lines) and the Little India MRT station (an interchange for the Northeast and Downtown Lines). Nearby amenities include United Square Shopping Mall and Pek Kio Market and Food Centre.
The tender proposals for the site will be evaluated based on a 30-70 weightage for price and quality, respectively. At the official tender launch at the Kampong Java site, SLA’s director of business planning and development, Carrie Wong, highlighted that the concept proposal should include innovative ideas on how to position the premises as a vibrant arts sandbox and proposals on attracting artists from various disciplines.
Wong also mentioned that the SLA has completed renovation and restoration works on the property, including interior upgrades, a new driveway, and carpark lots.
The properties’ use has evolved over the years. In the 1930s, they were built as quarters and outhouses for Singapore Municipal staff and their families. In the 1950s, they were used as offices and stores for the electrical and architect departments of Singapore City Council, which was later taken over by the Public Utilities Board (PUB) and Public Works Department (PWD). In the 1960s, the site was used as junior government quarters and government offices for the Election Department, Industrial Health Unit, and other ministerial departments. In the 1970s, it was leased to the public for residential and commercial purposes, and in the 2000s, it was solely used for residential purposes.
The tender for this unique state property will close on September 18, with the results to be announced in 4Q2024. This is a great opportunity for a visionary individual or organization to create an innovative and dynamic arts space in the heart of Little India. Additionally, heritage bungalows on Scotts Road and Orange Grove Road are also available for lease, making this an exciting time for the arts in Singapore.