Transforming Dover: Demolition Plans Revealed

In a significant move, the former ITE headquarters and the ITE Dover campus are set to be demolished by the Housing Development Board (HDB) as part of Singapore's urban renewal efforts. This redevelopment will pave the way for new housing developments in Dover Drive.

A New Neighborhood on the Horizon

As of August 14, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has granted HDB permission to demolish the sites located at 10 and 20 Dover Drive, which served educational purposes from 1995 until their closures in 2010. The planned redevelopment encompasses most of the 5.9 hectares of land, earmarking approximately 3.8 hectares for new homes—an area roughly the size of five football fields.

The URA's Draft Master Plan 2025 is set to reshape the area in the next decade, with the first phase of the new Dover-Medway neighborhood expected to yield around 6,000 homes.

Exciting Housing Potential

Real estate experts estimate that the 3.8-hectare housing plot could accommodate over 1,300 new flats, potentially ranging from 1,700 to 1,900 units, making it a prime site for prospective homeowners. With proximity to educational institutions like Fairfield Methodist School (Primary), the appeal of these new homes is expected to surge.

What's Next for Education and Community?

As the neighborhood evolves, the demand for additional primary schools may spike, catering to families wanting to settle in the vibrant area. Real estate analysts suggest that homes here could fall under the sought-after classification, especially given the area's competitive market.

An Artistic Legacy: The Future of Root 2

A highlight of the former ITE premises, the impressive stainless steel sculpture, Root 2, crafted by local artist Robert Min Chen, weighs a staggering 5,000 kilograms and measures 8.2 meters in diameter. Originally commissioned in the late 1990s, there are now concerns about the future of the artwork as demolition looms. Although it could be relocated, the costs associated with moving and refurbishing it are hefty, leaving its fate uncertain.

Calls have been made to find a more prominent location for Root 2, allowing it to continue enriching the community as a unique piece of public art.

The Next Chapter for Dover

As demolition work is set to begin in the first half of 2026, the area is poised for significant transformation, marking the end of an era while ushering in new opportunities for residents, businesses, and art enthusiasts alike. What will emerge from these changes? Only time will tell!