Maiden plot in Bukit Timah Turf City snags 9 bids as developers jostle for first-mover advantage
The first residential site at Bukit Timah Turf City has attracted strong developer interest, with nine bids submitted during a competitive Government Land Sales (GLS) tender. A consortium led by Frasers Property, Sekisui House and CSC Land Group emerged as the top bidder, offering S$491.5 million or about S$1,410 per square foot per plot ratio (psf ppr).
This site along Dunearn Road is part of a broader vision outlined in the Draft Master Plan 2025, which includes plans to build 15,000 to 20,000 homes in the Bukit Timah area. The 13,492 square metre plot is expected to yield around 380 new homes.
CBRE’s head of research for Singapore and Southeast Asia, Tricia Song, said the strong response could be driven by confidence in the master plan, which highlights green spaces, transport connectivity, and heritage conservation. Among the 22 buildings proposed for conservation are two iconic grandstands, which are expected to be rejuvenated as community spaces.
PropNex’s head of research Wong Siew Ying noted that over the next 10 to 15 years, Turf City could see 20 more residential plots launched, along with mixed-use sites that will bring amenities and retail options to support the growing population.
This is the highest number of bids for a GLS site since 2021, and the second-highest land rate of 2025 so far, just behind GuocoLand’s winning bid of S$1,420 psf ppr for River Valley Green (Parcel B).
Huttons Asia CEO Mark Yip believes the draft master plan has given developers more clarity and confidence, reducing uncertainty. ERA CEO Marcus Chu added that the rare GLS supply in District 10 likely sparked the competitive interest. The last GLS site awarded in this district was Orchard Boulevard, which fetched S$1,617 psf ppr in January 2024.
Despite the healthy competition, the top bid for Turf City remains below peak land rates seen in 2017, such as the Fourth Avenue plot which sold for S$1,540 psf ppr. Analysts say the more conservative bidding reflects higher construction costs, efficiency losses from gross floor area harmonisation, and steeper Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD).
OrangeTee & Tie CEO Justin Quek highlighted the site’s proximity to Sixth Avenue MRT and top schools, which could appeal to family buyers. Frasers Property Singapore CEO Soon Su Lin said the company is excited to contribute to the area’s transformation, calling it a rare opportunity in a prime district.
With amenities, transport links, parks, and heritage landmarks all planned within walking distance, the Turf City site is poised to become one of Singapore’s most anticipated new housing precincts. If awarded, the Frasers-led team will have a chance to shape the future of one of the largest upcoming residential zones in central Singapore.
