Up until the 1970s and 80s, Punggol was dubbed the countryside of Singapore. Though Northeastern district still retains its ulu reputation today, that might change in the coming years once Punggol-21 Plus projects are finally completed. But even as Punggol modernises, it continues to retain a unique flavour of heritage and history. Here’s are some Punggol history tidbits about the neighbourhood that might surprise you.
From poultry and pigs to vegetables and even fish, Punggol was home to every sort of farm imaginable. Punggol Fishing Port at Punggol Road 10¾ milestone was bustling with trading activity from local fishermen and Chinese traders. This foreshadowed the diverse, multicultural population of Singapore today. Despite having a lucrative market, Punggol Fishing Port would shift to Senoko Fishing Port in Woodlands after just 13 years of operation.
Today, community gardens around Punggol keep the spirit of food sustainability alive. Seafood restaurants at Punggol also remind us of a time when locals sourced food straight from the sea.
Ever wonder why so many LRT stations and roads in the Northeast are named after plants? Vast farms and plantations stretched from Jalan Kayu all the way to Punggol, creating an impressive network of farms. Roads that led to these farms were aptly known as farmways. Many of the farms no longer exist, but Singaporeans can still visit the Animal Lodge or orchid and mushroom cultivation farms to get closer to nature.
Punggol is part of another large network today: the North Eastern Riverine Loop. 16km of jogging and cycling tracks link Buangkok, Sengkang, and Punggol. The tracks pass by favourite hiking spots such as Coney Island and Lorong Halus Wetland. Those who want to make a pitstop can do so at Waterway Point or Rivervale Plaza, showing how Punggol continues to be a place where urban living intersects with nature.
Punggol was always ahead of the technological game. From as early as 1990, hydroponic vegetable and orchid farms in Punggol were already using non-pollutive technology. This introduced the idea of a self-sustaining production line and ecosystem that continues to guide food sustainability and environmental practices.
Today, Punggol is still leading the way when it comes to technology. Punggol Digital District is expected to bring in over 28,000 IT jobs upon completion in 2023. The new district is pioneering a new architectural approach that brings in a business park, a university, and community facilities within proximity of one another. The building’s environment will be monitored by technology as well and will be used as a blueprint to guide future developments throughout Singapore.
Throughout Punggol history, Singaporeans from all over to take part in water activities. The 1960s saw a boom in boat rides, skin diving, and water-skiing. Unfortunately, the fun was short-lived, as rental and coaching shops had to make way for land reclamation works.
But Punggol Regional Sports Centre will be making a splash in 2023 with its five swimming pool complex. From riverside restaurants to aquatic-themed residences, it seems impossible to separate water from Punggol.
As you can see, Punggol has seen much activity throughout its history. The next decade promises to bring even more excitement to this corner of Singapore. No wonder investors are clamouring all over estates in the area right now. Not bad for the countryside at all!
Thinking of buying or selling a home? Schedule a renovation consultation now and receive $1,000 in your ServiceBack.com Wallet.
*Cashback savings can be used across various renovation projects, capped at 10% of your renovation fee or $200.
