SINGAPORE - Connaught Drive will be turned into a two-way street while one side of Anderson Bridge will be converted to a pedestrian footpath, said National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan in a blog post on Thursday.
The enhancements, first unveiled during the Draft Master Plan exhibition last year, will bring together various iconic buildings in the Civic District and transform the area into an integrated arts, culture and lifestyle hub.
"Our Civic District is full of history, memories, monuments and beauties," said Mr Khaw. "Over the years, huge assets have been assembled there, but their full potential is not being realised."
Works have started, with the bulk to be completed next year, noted Mr Khaw, adding that these will enhance visitors' experience to attractions such as the Asian Civilisations Museum, the National Gallery and the Padang.
Other enhancements include the introduction of a spacious walkway along St Andrew's Road, in front of the National Gallery, and the creation of stepped plazas at Queen Elizabeth Walk and in front of the Asian Civilisations Museum to allow visitors to enjoy the waterfront views and river activities.
Empress Place will also be paved over to integrate the Asian Civilisations Museum and the Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall into a seamless park, with opportunities for a variety of outdoor events.
