Hotel Properties, overseen by tycoon Ong Beng Seng and his wife Christina, has received government approval to embark on a groundbreaking redevelopment initiative encompassing three prime properties along Singapore‘s famed Orchard Road. The endeavor, estimated to cost between S$1 billion and S$2 billion, is poised to reshape the city’s iconic shopping strip, marking a significant transformation for the bustling district.
The ambitious project targets the Forum shopping center, the voco Orchard hotel, and HPL House for a comprehensive overhaul. This mixed-use redevelopment initiative aims to fuse elements of hospitality, retail, office, and residential spaces across the combined land area of 14,027 square meters.
As part of the grand plan, twin skyscrapers, each soaring 64 stories high, will grace the landscape. Accompanying them will be a 43-story tower, an independent 29-story block, a rooftop garden, and even a performance theater. The endeavor is set to yield a sprawling 114,153 square meters of built-up space upon its completion.
Vision for Orchard Road’s Future
In a regulatory filing, Hotel Properties expressed its aspiration for the project: “The proposed redevelopment will transform this part of Orchard Road into a vibrant, energetic, significant, and prominent precinct. It will be the focal point to the North West of Orchard Road, a new critical mass of mixed activities, a gateway destination on Orchard Road, and provide connectivity between the site and neighboring developments.”
While property demand remains steadfast, industry experts suggest that Hotel Properties might exercise caution in expediting the redevelopment process. Vijay Natarajan, an analyst at RHB Capital, noted, “They may wait for the market to settle down, especially on increased construction costs and borrowing costs.” The company faced financial challenges, with a net loss of S$17.2 million in the first half of the year due to a surge in finance charges.
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This visionary project emerges as the most extensive property redevelopment venture along Orchard Road, an area witnessing a surge in older buildings earmarked for rejuvenation. As Singapore’s government endeavors to infuse the district with pedestrian-friendly and eco-conscious elements, numerous structures are undergoing revitalization. Notably, Pacific Eagle Real Estate purchased the Tanglin Shopping Centre for S$868 million, and the Ming Arcade was acquired by tycoon Asok Kumar Hiranandani’s Royal Group for S$172 million.
Hotel Properties remains determined to press forward with its landmark project, notwithstanding recent developments. Its Managing Director, Ong Beng Seng, is currently linked to an ongoing graft investigation. Despite this, the company asserts that Ong will continue fulfilling his corporate responsibilities.
Ong Beng Seng, a prominent figure in the hospitality industry, boasts an extensive portfolio of hotels and resorts spanning 15 countries. Notable establishments include the Four Seasons in Singapore and the Maldives. Furthermore, he commands the Formula One Singapore Grand Prix franchise, which recently secured a seven-year contract extension in 2022.
With the forthcoming redevelopment poised to redefine Orchard Road‘s landscape, Hotel Properties’ visionary venture aligns with Singapore’s commitment to progress while honoring its iconic past.
