Central Area

Facts and Figures

The Central Area in Singapore is made up of areas such as Marina East, Marina South, Newton, Orchard, Outram, River Valley, Rochor, Singapore River, to name a few. It is also popularly known as the Central Business District (CBD).

There are a few HDB mixed residential and commercial developments within the Central Area. We manage 12,316 flats housing 27,700 HDB residents (as of 31 March 2018).

History of the Central Area

The Central Area traces its history to the Raffles Plan put in place by Sir Stamford Raffles.

Designated as a commercial area due to its proximity to the harbour, it was the commercial and administrative centre of Singapore during the Colonial era.

Evolving Through The Years

Lying in the southern region of Singapore, the Central Area is one of the busiest and densely-packed districts in Singapore.

Certain districts are planned to integrate commercial and residential activities. Skyscrapers and buildings dominate the landscape of this area, where the bulk of Singapore’s financial activities are conducted.

The mixed public housing and commercial developments are mainly located in the Rochor and Outram areas.

One of the most recognisable housing projects in Singapore – The Pinnacle @ Duxton – which comprises 7 50-storey blocks, is also located within the area.

Notable Places

Maxwell Market is a well-known food haven among Singaporeans, especially the working crowd, who throng the place during lunchtime.

The Central Area is home to a few cultural sites, and a walk along the many preserved shophouses bears testament to the rich history and tradition of the place.