Beneath the concrete and steel of the Rochor Flyover lies a story of transformation. This flyover and the surrounding area are about to undergo some significant changes as part of the North-South Corridor project. Let’s explore how this infrastructure project will affect this area.
The North-South Corridor or NSC will enhance connectivity from the northern region to the city. Towns such as Sembawang, Yishun, Ang Mo Kio, Toa Payoh, Novena and Rochor will benefit. The NSC aims to relieve traffic along Singapore’s north-south transportation axis. It will also support new developments along the corridor.
Originally planned as the North South Expressway or NSE, the project was reimagined in 2016. The goal was to enhance the Walk-Cycle-Ride experience. The NSC now includes the NSC Expressway and the NSC ground-level streets. Vehicular traffic will be diverted to the NSC viaduct and tunnel. This will free up ground-level space. This space will be used for wider footpaths, cycling paths and bus priority measures. There will also be more communal and green spaces.
The NSC is expected to be completed in phases from 2027. The viaduct portion of the NSC from Admiralty Road West to Lentor Avenue is targeted to open in 2027. The rest, comprising a road tunnel from Lentor Avenue to East Coast Parkway or ECP, will open in 2029. The surface streets will then be repurposed. The priority will be walking, cycling, public transport, and community spaces.
Imagine an iconic public space at the intersection of Rochor Canal Road, Sungei Road, and Jalan Besar. This could connect three cultural districts: Little India, Kampong Glam and Waterloo Street. Nearby educational institutions include Lasalle College of the Arts, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts and Singapore Management University. This public space has the potential to enhance walking, cycling, and riding experiences around Rochor Road. It could also allow better connections between Little India, Kampong Glam and Waterloo Street.
A stretch of Ophir Road next to Kampong Glam could also be pedestrianised. It could become a site for events and activities that celebrate heritage and culture. This would connect Kampong Glam to Bugis. These ideas stemmed from landscape architecture firm Henning Larsen. They have been appointed the masterplan consultant for the surface streets along the corridor.
The firm envisions four distinct segments for the corridor from north to south. These are a 6km community-industrial stretch, a 7km ecological loop, a 5km people’s wellness corridor, and a 3.5km cultural-heritage segment. The four segments will feature more than 20 public spaces. These spaces will reflect the unique characteristics of nearby neighborhoods and destinations.
The Rochor Flyover stands as a testament to Singapore’s ever-evolving urban landscape. The North-South Corridor project will transform the area around Rochor Flyover into a more pedestrian and cyclist-friendly zone. The Rochor Flyover area is set to become a vibrant hub. It will seamlessly blend culture, heritage, and community.