An artist's impression of the neighbourhood centre located next to Punggol Waterway, where residents can come together to bond over plants and greenery.

It is the first of four new-generation centres to be built by the Housing Board over the next three years, with other centres in Sembawang, Hougang and Punggol.

Named Oasis Terraces, it will be a one-stop amenity centre for Punggol residents, with 18,000 sq m of retail space for shopping and dining outlets and educational and enrichment centres.

National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan, who officiated at the foundation-laying ceremony yesterday, said focus group discussions with residents helped in planning the new centre.

Set to be completed in 2018, it will also house the Punggol Polyclinic operated by SingHealth Polyclinics. At the heart of the development will be a sheltered plaza for community gatherings and bonding among residents.