Enhancement works planned at Waterloo Street to improve area’s walkability, vibrancy

The streetscape will also see improved landscaping and more trees for added shade, creating a more pedestrian-friendly environment, said URA.

A new footpath will also be constructed along Waterloo Link, and a covered linkway across Waterloo Street will provide more pedestrian connectivity between Waterloo Street, Bencoolen Street and Queen Street, and onward to Bencoolen and Bras Basah MRT stations.

The wider sidewalks will, in turn, provide pockets of public spaces for outdoor events and community activities. 

Water supply and electrical points will also be installed along Waterloo Street to support public events and activities, in response to suggestions from arts groups during URA’s engagements relating to the project, the authority said.

Ms Indranee Rajah, who is Second Minister for National Development, said in a Facebook post on Thursday that these works are “part of ongoing efforts to rejuvenate the Bras Basah.Bugis precinct and strengthen its identity as a creative hub for arts, culture and education”. 

“We gathered ideas and feedback from stakeholders and the public, who hoped for a more accessible and inviting streetscape,” she added. 

The proposed plans were exhibited at a public exhibition at Waterloo Centre in 2021, the Recreation Master Plan exhibition in 2024 and the Draft Master Plan exhibition in 2025, according to URA.

These efforts also reinforce the authority’s Master Plan 2025, which has a focus on rejuvenating the city centre and “strengthening its role as an inclusive destination for business, tourism and culture, bringing together people from all walks of life”, it added.