Woodlands, Kranji & Sembawang set for major redevelopment

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced plans to transform northern Singapore in his National Day Rally 2025 speech on Aug. 17.

He outlined major redevelopment projects for Woodlands, Kranji, and Sembawang, which will reshape the region into a vibrant hub of homes, industry, and leisure.

Woodlands

PM Wong highlighted Woodlands as Singapore’s northern gateway and noted the potential of the recently signed Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ) agreement.

To unlock these opportunities, the government will redevelop the Woodlands Checkpoint, which will be five times bigger than the current facility.

The expansion aims to ease the congestion and shorten waiting times at the Causeway.

During his speech, PM Wong also touched on the upcoming Johor Bahru-Singapore RTS Link, which will open late next year.

Passengers will enjoy seamless transfers and joint immigration clearance at departure points, with its Singapore terminal directly connected to Woodlands North MRT station.

To complement its opening, the government will build flexible industrial spaces around the RTS station to support SEZ-linked businesses, as well as new housing.

About 4,000 HDB flats will be launched in a new “Housing by the Woods” precinct near Admiralty Park, with more homes planned along the Woodlands waterfront.

Kranji

Turning to Kranji, PM Wong announced plans to redevelop the former Turf Club site, once synonymous with horse racing.

With connectivity boosted by the upcoming Sungei Kadut MRT interchange and surrounded by nature spots like Mandai Wildlife Reserve and the Rail Corridor, the 130-hectare area is set to become a new housing estate.

The development will feature 14,000 homes nestled amid greenery, supported by amenities such as a new neighbourhood centre.

PM Wong described it as "a new housing development combining urban living with our rich natural heritage," expected to take shape in about a decade.

Sembawang

In Sembawang, the government will redevelop the historic Sembawang Shipyard, which dates back to its days as a British naval base in 1938.

PM Wong said that its maritime heritage will be preserved and could potentially be repurposed into a community space for sports, concerts, or public gatherings.

Beyond the dock, the area - about three times the size of Ang Mo Kio Town Centre - will be transformed into a waterfront lifestyle destination with homes, dining, shopping, and community spaces along the promenade.

"This can become a new vibrant waterfront destination in the North - rich in heritage, yet reimagined for the future," PM Wong said.