Heritage at Turf City – Preserving the Grandstand and Historic Buildings

The Turf City redevelopment in Bukit Timah isn’t just about new homes, MRT lines, and green living. It’s also about preserving the rich history of the site. Once home to racehorses, training stables, and later a bustling lifestyle hub, Turf City holds a unique place in Singapore’s heritage. As URA shapes its future, 27 historic buildings will be conserved, including the iconic Grandstand.

📜 A Brief History of Turf City

The site began as the Singapore Turf Club Racecourse in 1933, where horse racing was a major entertainment attraction until the 1990s. After racing shifted to Kranji, the area was repurposed as Turf City, hosting restaurants, sports facilities, lifestyle hubs, and the beloved Grandstand shopping complex.

Now, as Turf City transforms into a modern residential estate, this history will not be erased — but celebrated.

🏟️ The Grandstand – Iconic Centrepiece

The most recognisable structure at Turf City is The Grandstand. Once a grandstand for horse racing spectators, and later a mall with dining, supermarkets, and enrichment centres, it will be conserved and repurposed as part of the new estate.

Possible future uses include:

• Community hub with retail & dining options.
• Heritage gallery celebrating Bukit Timah’s past.
• Cultural & arts events space.

🐎 Other Heritage Buildings

Besides the Grandstand, 26 other heritage structures will be preserved. These include stables, colonial-era service buildings, and former horse-training facilities. They provide a tangible link to Bukit Timah’s equestrian history.

Conserving these buildings ensures that Turf City’s identity remains distinct — blending modernity with heritage.

🌿 Heritage Meets Green Living

URA’s vision for Turf City is not just about nostalgia. By conserving historic buildings while integrating green corridors and community spaces, residents will enjoy a unique mix of old and new.

This approach reflects Singapore’s wider strategy: building modern housing estates that retain their cultural roots.

📈 Why Heritage Adds Value for Buyers

For buyers and investors, heritage adds a new dimension to property value:

• Character & Identity: Living in a neighbourhood with conserved history makes Turf City unlike other estates.
• Vibrant Lifestyle: Historic sites repurposed into cafes, galleries, or retail spaces enhance lifestyle appeal.
• Investment Edge: Heritage elements can boost long-term demand, as buyers value authenticity and unique identity.

👉 Learn more about the wider estate plan here: Turf City Redevelopment 2025 – Everything You Need to Know

❓ FAQs – Heritage at Turf City

Q1. How many heritage buildings will be conserved?
A total of 27 heritage buildings, including the Grandstand, stables, and colonial-era structures.

Q2. What will happen to The Grandstand?
The Grandstand will be repurposed as a community and lifestyle hub, while retaining its iconic architecture.

Q3. Why conserve heritage in a new estate?
Conservation adds identity, cultural value, and long-term lifestyle appeal to the estate.

📢 Conclusion

The Turf City redevelopment is not just about the future — it’s also about honouring the past. With 27 heritage buildings conserved, including the iconic Grandstand, Turf City will offer residents a unique lifestyle where history, community, and modern living meet. For buyers, this heritage value adds to the long-term appeal of Turf City Condos.

Read more : 10 Reasons Why Turf City Will Be Singapore’s Next Iconic Township