November 12, 2024
Golden Mile Complex, one of Singapore’s unique and iconic buildings, is getting a big upgrade. This well-known landmark, famous for its terraced design, will soon welcome four new floors and a 45-storey residential tower called Aurea. The aim is to bring new life to the complex while keeping its historical charm intact.
A Landmark Building with a Story
Golden Mile Complex was completed in 1973 and was among Singapore’s first buildings to combine shopping, office, and living spaces in one place—a pretty big deal at the time! It has been a special part of Singapore’s skyline for decades, attracting both locals and visitors with its mix of shops, eateries, and unique businesses.
Why Preserve Golden Mile Complex?
In 2020, Singapore’s Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) decided to conserve Golden Mile Complex to protect its historical and architectural value. URA offered incentives to developers, like adding extra floor space and waiving some fees, making the building more attractive for future development.
What’s Coming Next
The plan includes four new storeys on the existing structure and a separate 45-storey residential tower, Aurea. This tower will provide new living spaces and give Golden Mile Complex a fresh, modern twist. The URA has ensured that the new construction will blend with the building’s original look to keep its special character alive.
A New Model for Revitalizing Old Buildings
Golden Mile Complex’s redevelopment shows that old buildings can be preserved and still serve new, profitable purposes. By involving various people and groups, like building owners and heritage enthusiasts, URA has set a great example of how other historical buildings can be rejuvenated too.
Change and Continuity
While the structure of Golden Mile Complex will remain, its atmosphere might change as long-time tenants, like Thai eateries and small shops, move out. These businesses have been part of the complex’s charm, so their absence may mark the end of an era.
Developer’s Plans
GMC Property, a collaboration between Perennial Holdings, Far East Organization, and Sino Land, is leading the redevelopment. They’ll add four floors of office space to the complex, along with the new Aurea condominium, which will be connected to Golden Mile by a link bridge.
Encouraging Development
URA’s incentives make this project more viable and attractive for developers:
- Extra Floor Space: The complex is allowed a one-third increase in floor space, meaning more room to work with without compromising the building’s historical essence.
- Waived Fees: Some development fees are waived, reducing costs and making the project more affordable.
- Site Flexibility: The option to extend the site boundary allows for better layout and design flexibility.
- Longer Lease: The site’s lease may be renewed for 99 years, providing security and stability for developers.
Looking Ahead
The transformation of Golden Mile Complex is a reminder that Singapore values both progress and heritage. With the new additions, the complex will continue to play an important role in Singapore’s cityscape, mixing the old with the new.
As Singapore moves forward, this project highlights the importance of keeping our cultural and historical landmarks alive for future generations.
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