Written Answer by Ministry of National Development on Farrer Park Field

Aug 6, 2018

Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye: To ask the Minister for National Development whether the Ministry will consider preserving Farrer Park Field and the adjoining facilities as the area has a rich sports heritage and memorable sports milestones instead of repurposing it into a residential development.

Answer:

Farrer Park Field has been used as a sports field since the 1930s. Other sport facilities adjoining the Field such as the Athletic Centre and Swimming Pool were built in the 1950s, and served as the training grounds for many local athletes. Over the years, as newer facilities such as the nearby Jalan Besar Stadium and Swimming Complex and the National Stadium were built, the facilities in the Farrer Park area were less frequently used as competitive sports venues. Today, they are used mainly by the public for recreational sports.

The Farrer Park area is close to the city and the Little India MRT interchange, making it suitable for housing. The current plan is to develop the area for housing and community facilities, including a park. We are mindful of the Farrer Park area’s history as a sporting ground, and will see how best to weave in elements of the heritage of the area in our future plans. We will seek feedback and ideas from key stakeholders and community partners, as we develop more detailed plans.