1. In 2017, as part of URA’s efforts to improve the quality of public spaces in private developments, URA launched the Design Guidelines for Privately Owned Public Spaces (POPS) which outline the minimum design standards to be complied with, for developments which are required to provide a public space and/or seeking Gross Floor Area exemption for a first-storey covered public space (Circular No.: URA/PB/2017/02-PCUDG dated 24 January 2017). The guidelines ensure that new POPS are designed as usable and comfortable spaces with sufficient provision of seating and shade.
   
   
2. With the increased importance of public spaces, URA has reviewed the Design Guidelines for POPS. Bonus GFA for Outdoor Refreshment Areas (ORA), currently applicable to only Orchard Road and Singapore River planning areas, will be extended to all POPS, to contribute to a more vibrant Singapore streetscape. ORA within POPS can be considered over and above the maximum intensity stipulated in the Master Plan for the site¹.
   
   
3. For developments which have not maximised their development potential, ORA within POPS can be considered provided that the prevailing planning and urban design guidelines for the development and the POPS are complied with. The key revisions to the guidelines regarding ORA within POPS are included in section 5 of Annex 1.

Please refer to²:

Annex 1 for the revised detailed guidelines for POPS and the guidelines for ORA within POPS;

Annex 2 for the revised submission requirements for POPS.

Implementation

4. The revised guidelines for POPS will take effect from 3 Jun 2022 for all new proposals received on or after the effective date. All proposals are to be submitted to our Development Control Group and each proposal will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and on the merits of the individual proposals.

5. The bonus GFA incentive scheme will remain valid for five years. URA will review the effectiveness and relevance of the scheme at the end of this five-year period, and reserve the right to vary or change the specific requirements and extent of incentives in this scheme during this five-year period.  

6. I would appreciate it if you could convey the contents of this circular to your members. We have updated the same in the Development Control Handbooks. You are advised to refer to these Handbooks for the updated guidelines instead of referring to past circulars.

7. For other information on the master plan, urban design guidelines, private property use and approval, car park locations and availability, private residential property transactions, and conservation areas and buildings, use URA SPACE (Service Portal and Community e-Services). This is an online portal packed with useful data and visualisation to help building professionals, business operators and the general public in their decision-making. It consolidates detailed information on land use and private property into a one-stop platform presented on geospatial maps. For feedback or enquiries, please email us.

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¹ This is subject to the overall cap of 10% of the maximum permissible GFA for the site allowed for the site under the Master Plan and the payment of Temporary Development Levy (TDL) or Differential Premium (DP), whichever is applicable.

² Appendices 1 and 2 in Circular No.: URA/PB/2017/02-PCUDG dated 24 January 2017 will be superseded by Annex 1 and Annex 2 of this circular respectively.