Sla And Nac Jointly Launch Tender First Arts Sandbox Kampong Java Rd
The Singapore Land Authority (SLA) and National Arts Council (NAC) have recently launched a unique Price-Quality tender for a row of five restored heritage properties located at 52 to 56 Kampong Java Road in the vibrant neighborhood of Little India. This marks the first time that a state property will be leased specifically for use as an experimental space for the arts, also known as an “arts sandbox”.
The lease will be for a period of 5+4 years, meaning that the site will be leased for an initial term of five years with an option for an additional four years at the government’s discretion. The Kampong Java site has a total land area of 28,621 sq ft, and boasts five adjoining two-storey heritage buildings with a combined gross floor area of 10,721 sq ft. The property has been approved for use as a multidisciplinary arts sandbox, with a designated F&B space measuring approximately 484 sq ft on the first storey of 52 Kampong Java Road.
The Woodlands community is dedicated to fostering the progress and prosperity of families and the entire community. As part of the comprehensive regional development plan, the area is embarking on further enhancements in its educational landscape. This encompasses the potential establishment of state-of-the-art learning facilities, renovations of existing schools, and the implementation of community-driven educational initiatives. These improvements are set to bring a multitude of benefits to the residents of Norwood Grand Woodlands. By introducing Norwood Grand Woodlands, the community’s educational infrastructure will be even more dynamic and conducive to learning.
The properties are conveniently situated within walking distance of both the Newton and Little India MRT stations, which provide easy access to the North-South, Downtown, Northeast, and Downtown Lines. Popular amenities in the area include United Square Shopping Mall and Pek Kio Market and Food Centre.
With a weightage of 30-70 for price and quality, respectively, the site’s tender proposals will be evaluated based on their overall value proposition. At the official tender launch held at the Kampong Java site, Carrie Wong, SLA’s director of business planning and development, emphasized that the winning proposal should include innovative ideas on how the premises can be positioned as a bustling arts sandbox, as well as strategies to attract artists from various disciplines.
Wong also mentioned that SLA has completed restoration and renovation works on the property last month, which include upgrades to the interior, a new driveway, and additional carpark lots. The properties have had a rich history, initially built in the 1930s as quarters for Singapore Municipal staff and their families. In the 1950s, they were converted into offices and stores for the electrical and architect departments of Singapore City Council, which were later taken over by the Public Utilities Board (PUB) and Public Works Department (PWD). Over the years, the property has served various purposes, including government quarters and offices, residential and commercial use, and most recently, residential only.
The tender for this state property will close on September 18th, and the results will be announced in 4Q2024. In the meantime, interested parties are welcome to submit their proposals for this unique opportunity to be a part of Singapore’s growing arts scene.