STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVE (SDI) SCHEME
28 May 2026
A introduced the Strategic Development Incentive (SDI) Scheme in 2019 to encourage the timely rejuvenation of older buildings in strategic areas into new, bold and innovative developments that will positively transform the surrounding urban environment.
The scheme provides a framework to evaluate and guide proposals that deviate from existing planning parameters for the site, but have a positive and transformational impact on the surrounding environment that will help rejuvenate the area.
The planning parameters for which deviations may be considered under SDI Scheme are:
Gross plot ratio (GPR) / gross floor area (GFA);
Land use and use quantum;
Building height
Eligibility
The SDI Scheme is open to applications from building owners for developments in strategic areas across Singapore that meet the eligibility criteria.
Sites that fall within the designated areas for the CBD Incentive Scheme (CBD Incentive Scheme 2.0) will be guided by the CBD Incentive Scheme instead of being considered under the SDI Scheme.
Eligibility for consideration under the SDI Scheme is subject to the criteria as outlined below.
Age of Development: At least 20 years old from date of last TOP
Land Use: Commercial or mixed-use developments with predominantly commercial uses. Developments with predominantly residential uses will not be eligible.
Transformational Impact: The rejuvenation proposal should include a minimum of two adjacent sites, such that the amalgamated project can have a strong transformational impact on the surrounding environment that will enhance and rejuvenate the area.
Exemptions from the eligibility criteria above can be considered where rejuvenation has a positive impact beyond the confines of a single site, to contribute to the rejuvenation of the larger streetblock or precinct, for example:
The proposal helps to plug critical gaps in the planned pedestrian networks for the precinct;
The proposal helps to open up a view corridor or physical access to a key public asset e.g. waterfront, park or public space; or
If the rejuvenation of a single site is large enough on its own to achieve the desired transformational impact.
Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
Urban Design and Architectural Design Concept
The proposed project should be a quality development that defines the site as a distinctive destination through its architectural design, scale, presence and setting in relation to the surrounding developments, pedestrian network, and the public realm.
Environmental Improvement / Contribution to the Community
The proposed project should enhance the public environment in a significant way and benefit the community at large, such as through:
Quality public spaces;
Measures designed to encourage the use of public transport and to discourage private car use;
Enhanced pedestrian networks and promotion of active mobility;
Public or cultural facilities (e.g. event and performance art venues, childcare facilities, and community services etc.);
Enhancement to public infrastructure;
Conservation of heritage buildings and structures, where applicable;
Retrofit and adaptive re-use of existing buildings, where applicable (new); and
Contribution to environmental sustainability.
Use Mix
The proposed project should provide an appropriate mix of uses that complements existing businesses and injects new uses to help revitalise the precinct. New, innovative uses and concepts that offer a differentiated user experience are encouraged.
Relevant technical agencies such as LTA and PUB will be consulted to ensure that any proposed intensification can be supported from an infrastructure planning perspective. URA will also guide the proposals to ensure that planning objectives are achieved.
Contribution to Sustainable Rejuvenation (new)
