Block 1 at East Coast Road, built in 1963, to be turned into 'refreshed community space'

Block 1 at East Coast Road will be retained and retrofitted into a refreshed community space, announced the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) together with the People's Association (PA) on Apr. 11.

While Blocks 1 to 4 at East Coast Road were initially slated to be torn down as part of a Selective En bloc Redevelopment Scheme (SERS) exercise announced in 2011, the authorities had decided to give Block 1 a "new lease of life" to cater to diverse communities.

The block is considered a familiar landmark for generations of Joo Chiat residents since the 1960s.

Community and resident engagements

In a press release, SLA and PA said they have commenced a series of public engagement sessions to better understand the views and needs of the local community, which will help inform the Addition & Alteration (A&A) works for the property.

Grassroots Adviser for Joo Chiat Edwin Tong also said that Block 1 has long been a familiar landmark for many in Joo Chiat:

"Many residents remember the services that used to be here, from clinics to small shops, and the distinctive design of the blocks from early HDB days. We made a deliberate decision to retain Block 1, to preserve a part of Joo Chiat’s shared history, and to reimagine it as a community space that can serve residents for years to come.”

Recent engagement sessions with residents have given rise to a range of ideas, including spaces for seniors to stay active and socialise, as well as areas for youths and community groups to come together, Tong said.

"These will guide how Block 1 is developed into a space that continues to serve the community meaningfully, ” he added.

Residents' opinions

One resident, Donald Magness, in his 80s, said that he was "born and bred" in Joo Chiat and has the fondest memories of Block 1.

"I used to patronise some of the shops there, such as the photo studio and barber shop. During our group discussion today, we shared our common memories of this place, brainstormed ideas, and envisioned how it could be in the future. I’m excited to see what Block 1 will become," he said.

Another resident, Tay Chen Peng, 35, shared that he feels it is important that some spaces in Block 1 are set aside for seniors’ activities and a common space where one can have coffee with friends.

SLA leads adaptive reuse

SLA, which is overseeing the project, said the works are part of a broader approach to balance retention with adaptive reuse.

Following assessments by relevant agencies, Block 1 will be retained and repurposed for social, community, and commercial uses, while remaining a familiar landmark for Joo Chiat residents.

Addition and Alteration (A&A) works, such as installing a lift, new staircases, and structural strengthening, will be carried out to meet current code requirements and support new uses.

Upgrades will include structural repairs, internal modifications for flexible use, and modernised mechanical and electrical systems, along with new toilets and facilities.

Accessibility will be enhanced with lifts and better circulation, while infrastructure such as fire access and drainage will also be upgraded.

Sustainability features, including solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, motion sensors, and eco-friendly materials, will be considered.

The retrofitted space is expected to be completed and operational by 2030, and will support a mix of uses, including active ageing programmes, youth spaces, social enterprises, and community activities.

Residents who wish to be part of future engagement efforts can register their interest at Siglap South Community Club via (https://go.gov.sg/blk1fgds).

Top photos from Edwin Tong/FB and SLA/PA(Artist impression of concept only and subject to change)