Major Transformation in Dover: A New Housing Era Begins

SINGAPORE – The iconic former ITE headquarters and Dover campus will soon meet their end, as the Housing and Development Board (HDB) gears up for demolition to pave the way for a new residential project.

On August 14, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) authorized HDB to take down the two campuses located at Dover Drive, which have served as educational sites since their inception in 1995. The ITE HQ operated until 2012, while the Dover campus saw its last students in 2010.

A Home for Thousands: What’s Coming Next?

Per the URA Draft Master Plan 2025, a significant portion of the 5.9ha site will transition into a housing plot spanning 3.8ha—roughly equivalent to five football fields! This multi-phase development is anticipated to welcome over 1,300 new flats, marking a major shift in the area’s landscape.

The new Dover-Medway neighborhood, located strategically between prominent schools and one-north, can potentially yield 6,000 public and private homes, with the first residential offerings expected to hit the market as early as November.

What Will Happen to Education on the Site?

Since ITE's departure, the sites have continued to serve educational purposes. Notably, the Singapore University of Technology and Design utilized the Dover campus from 2011 for four years, and the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) has occupied both Dover Drive locations until 2025.

Industry analysts predict a robust demand for housing in this area, with experts suggesting that the proximity to quality schools, including Fairfield Methodist School (Primary), could further elevate the appeal of new residences.

What About the Art? The Future of Root 2 Sculpture

Among the site's treasures is Root 2, a stunning 5,000kg stainless steel sculpture crafted by local artist Robert Min Chen. Once commissioned by ITE for $300,000, this 8.2m diameter masterpiece has been left behind amid the changing landscape.

While relocation of the sculpture was deemed feasible, the cost proved too steep, which means this beloved artwork remains at risk as demolition looms.

A Neighborhood in High Demand

Despite the upcoming changes, the Dover-Medway neighborhood remains part of the highly sought-after Queenstown district. Real estate trends showcase that more than 110 flats here have sold for at least $1 million in the first half of 2025, indicating a vibrant housing market.

Proximity to the one-north MRT station further solidifies the potential for these new flats to become prime properties, making it an exciting time for future homeowners.

The Clock is Ticking: What's Next?

As the HDB prepares to commence demolition in the first half of 2026, the area is poised for a dramatic transformation, heralding a new chapter in Singapore's residential landscape. With the legacy of ITE still echoed through its art, this historic site is on the brink of a new beginning.