Government Allocates Funds for Senior-Friendly Enhancements in 32 Estates, Including Seven Silver Estates
Singapore’s Ministry for National Development (MND) has committed a substantial $135 million to upgrade 32 private estates across the country, with a focus on improving infrastructure and amenities for senior residents. Announced by Minister Desmond Lee on February 8, the funding will be divided between two phases, including the first phase aimed at enhancing Silver Estates.
The Silver Estates will receive an initial allocation of $11 million as part of the MND’s Estate Upgrading Programme, which targets areas with higher concentrations of elderly residents. This initiative will provide essential upgrades, including senior-friendly features designed to improve accessibility and safety. In addition, $124 million has been earmarked for the upcoming upgrades to 25 other private estates, which will be expanded to address the needs of seniors.
Launched in 2000, the Estate Upgrading Programme is aimed at revitalising older private estates that do not have access to town council or Housing and Development Board (HDB) grants. So far, it has benefited over 54,000 households, with more than $216 million allocated to enhancing infrastructure and recreational spaces. Notably, residents will not have to bear the costs of the upgrading works.
Mr Lee explained that making estates more senior-friendly is crucial to ensuring that elderly residents can continue to live comfortably and independently. The upcoming upgrades will include features such as safer walkways, better lighting, and spaces for physical activity, all designed to encourage engagement and mobility among seniors.
The seven Silver Estates set for improvement include Fengshan, Hillview, Hong Leong Gardens, Pasir Panjang, MacPherson Gardens, Mayfair Park, Teachers’ Housing, and Thomson & Yew Lian Park, which together encompass over 3,700 households. These areas were initially upgraded under the programme years ago, but now require additional enhancements to support the ageing population.
Mr Lee further emphasised the importance of “ageing-in-place,” which enables seniors to carry out daily activities safely within their homes and communities. The ministry has pledged to work closely with project teams and local communities to ensure that the upgrades meet the practical needs of residents.
The upgrades to the 25 additional private estates will take place over the next five years, benefiting over 16,600 households. A full list of these estates can be found on the MND’s website.
