SINGAPORE - A new $2 million facility to support students, researchers, and the nature and heritage community studying wildlife and biodiversity was opened on Saturday on Pulau Ubin.

First announced in 2014, the Ubin Living Lab (ULL) is a 2.1-hectare facility located at the former Celestial resort at the southwestern tip of the island.

Research and nature groups can also hold talks and workshops to deepen appreciation for the nature and heritage of the island.

Two laboratories, meeting and seminar rooms, and two dormitories are available on site to field researchers to support their research activities on the island.

An additional National Parks Board site office is also located within the compound.

The lab was first initiated by some members of the Friends of Ubin Network as part of the Ubin Project.

Following this, a series of public consultation exercises were held where Singaporeans had asked the government to protect the biodiversity and enhance natural habitats on Pulau Ubin.

Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs and National Development, Mr Desmond Lee who was at the opening ceremony, said: " Over the next few months, several exciting plans will be rolled out. Community in Nature programmes such as coastal clean-ups, field studies and nature workshops will be held here, using the Ubin Living Lab as a focal point and launchpad."