SINGAPORE: A groundbreaking new community hub in Bedok North promises to be a game-changer for local residents, featuring an array of innovative facilities designed to foster connection, creativity, and culinary exploration. Expected to open its doors by the end of 2025, this hub will be a sanctuary where home-based businesses can experiment with flavors in a fully equipped kitchen and conduct culinary workshops.

Revealed by the People’s Association (PA) and the social enterprise City Sprouts, the hub will occupy the former site of the Kampong Chai Chee Community Centre on Bedok North Avenue 1. This new space is envisioned as a “vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive Intergenerational Community Hub” that aims to unite residents of all ages.

In addition to the kitchen facilities, the hub will include a therapy center dedicated to rescue cats, providing a therapeutic environment where people can bond with these furry companions. This unique feature highlights the growing recognition of the mental health benefits of animal interaction.

Residents can look forward to a community garden, allowing them to cultivate their own produce, and a versatile multi-purpose hall that can host sports events and community gatherings. Additionally, there will be a state-of-the-art podcast recording studio, giving aspiring podcasters a platform to share their stories, and a co-working space tailored for budding entrepreneurs.

Young creatives will have access to cutting-edge technology, as the hub will be outfitted with a 3D printer, laser cutter, and digital plotter, fostering a spirit of innovation among children and youths.

City Sprouts has been appointed as the master tenant and operator of this hub, collaborating with various partners including MENDAKI, Masjid Al-Ansar Mosque, and VIVITA Singapore. These partnerships underscore the commitment to crafting programming that meets the diverse needs of the community.

This hub is part of the ambitious East Coast Plan, unveiled by Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat during the 2020 election campaign, aimed at nurturing a more caring and vibrant community. The local Member of Parliament, Tan Kiat How, shared that there was a clear desire from residents to transform the former community centre into a space that caters better to their diverse needs.

Community surveys highlighted that older residents seek bonding opportunities with younger generations, while the youth expressed a desire for spaces where they can enhance their skills and engage in meaningful activities. Mr. Tan encouraged local youths to take an active role in shaping the future of the hub, emphasizing the importance of intergenerational relationships.

Bedok North is experiencing a demographic shift with an influx of younger families, prompting a strategic revitalization of existing vacant buildings to serve community needs. "We envisioned this space to foster intergenerational bonding, where grandparents can bring their grandchildren and share experiences,” Mr. Tan remarked.

As the construction of this exciting community hub progresses, it aims to redefine what it means to build a connected, supportive neighborhood in Bedok North—making it a beacon of culture, creativity, and compassion for years to come! Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring project!