Our Tampines Hub (OTH) is a groundbreaking integrated community and lifestyle complex located in Tampines, Singapore. As a vibrant centerpiece of the Tampines Regional Centre, OTH brings together a diverse range of services, amenities, and facilities under one roof, fostering community engagement and enhancing the quality of life for residents in the area. Officially opened on August 6, 2017, by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, OTH was developed based on extensive feedback from over 15,000 residents, reflecting the community's needs and aspirations.
Historical Background and Development
1. Origins and Planning
The site of Our Tampines Hub was formerly occupied by Tampines Stadium and Tampines Sports Hall, key sports facilities that had been serving the community since December 1989. These facilities were initially built in conjunction with the Tampines Swimming Complex as part of the Housing and Development Board (HDB)'s strategy to integrate sports and recreational amenities into new housing estates. Tampines Stadium, in particular, was a significant landmark, serving as the home ground for the Singapore Premier League club, Tampines Rovers.
In line with the Tampines Masterplan for 2011-2015, plans for a new integrated lifestyle town hub were unveiled on January 21, 2011. The vision was to create a comprehensive space that would combine sports, recreation, community services, and lifestyle amenities, making it a one-stop destination for residents. On May 11, 2013, a groundbreaking ceremony led by Members of Parliament for Tampines GRC was held at the former Tampines Stadium, signaling the beginning of construction for what was then known as Tampines Town Hub.
2. Construction and Opening
Construction of OTH began on June 1, 2014, following the complete demolition of the old Tampines Stadium. The name "Our Tampines Hub" was officially unveiled on August 30, 2015, during a community event attended by over 2,000 residents. The event also provided updates on the project's progress and gave residents an opportunity to vote on the hub's logo, reflecting the collaborative spirit behind its development.
Our Tampines Hub opened in three phases, starting from November 2016, and became fully operational by August 6, 2017. The launch of OTH marked a significant milestone in the transformation of Tampines into a dynamic regional center, setting a new standard for integrated community spaces in Singapore.
Key Features and Facilities
1. Multi-Purpose Sports and Recreation Facilities
Our Tampines Hub offers an extensive range of sports and recreation facilities catering to all age groups and fitness levels. One of its main features is the Town Square, a 5,100-seater stadium with a FIFA-endorsed "2 Star Quality Pro football pitch." The artificial turf can be used for both football and rugby matches, as well as various community events. After six years of vacating Tampines Stadium for the construction of OTH, Tampines Rovers returned to their home ground in July 2017, with a victorious match against Brunei DPMM, winning 2-0. Since 2019, Geylang International FC has also shared the stadium as its home ground.
OTH is equipped with six different swimming pools, each designed to cater to different needs, from families to competitive swimmers. One of these pools is the largest rooftop pool in Singapore, providing a unique swimming experience with scenic views of the Tampines skyline.
The public sports hall at OTH can be rented out for a fee and is frequently used for events such as the National School Games. This multi-use space highlights OTH's role in promoting sports and active lifestyles within the community.
2. Tampines Regional Library
The Tampines Regional Library, located within OTH, is a key community resource that spans five floors. It offers a wide array of books, multimedia resources, and programs for all age groups. The library's design incorporates interactive spaces, digital learning zones, and quiet reading areas, encouraging lifelong learning and community interaction. The library’s location within the hub makes it easily accessible to residents, adding to the educational and recreational value of OTH.
3. Public Services Centre
One of the standout features of Our Tampines Hub is the Public Services Centre, a centralized location where residents can access government services and assistance. This innovative service model houses a 24/7 e-service lobby, offering services from six different agencies, including the People's Association, North East Community Development Council, Housing Development Board (HDB), Workforce Singapore, Ministry of Social and Family Development, and ActiveSG. By bringing multiple government agencies together in one location, OTH has simplified the process of accessing public services, making it more convenient for residents.
4. Retail, Dining, and Entertainment Options
OTH features an extensive range of retail and dining options, making it a popular destination for shopping and food lovers. The complex includes a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and food courts, offering local, Asian, and international cuisines. These dining options cater to diverse tastes and preferences, providing residents and visitors with a plethora of choices. Additionally, the hub houses a 5,000 sq ft playground, creating a family-friendly environment that encourages community bonding.
5. Event Spaces and Community Programs
Our Tampines Hub is designed to be a vibrant community space that hosts various events and programs throughout the year. These include cultural performances, sports competitions, festive celebrations, workshops, and community outreach initiatives. The Town Square and Festive Plaza are among the key event spaces in OTH, regularly hosting concerts, bazaars, and community gatherings. The versatility of these spaces allows for a wide range of activities, fostering a sense of community spirit and engagement among residents.
Significant Events and Technological Innovations
1. Introduction of VAR Technology in Singapore Premier League
Our Tampines Hub has also been at the forefront of technological advancements in sports. In 2023, the stadium became the first in Singapore to implement Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in the Singapore Premier League. The facility has been retrofitted with remote cameras that relay feeds back to the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) headquarters at Jalan Besar, where a three-man team operates the VAR system from the Production Control Room 2. With access to all camera angles in the stadium and advanced pitch-side camera systems capable of up to 40-times zoom, VAR technology aims to reduce bad refereeing calls and enhance the quality of football matches in Singapore.
2. High-Profile Football Event by Starhub
On April 21, 2024, OTH hosted a highly anticipated football event organized by Starhub, featuring players from the English Premier League and the Singapore national football team. The star-studded lineup included renowned footballers such as John Arne Riise, Teddy Sheringham, Dwight Yorke, David James, Emile Heskey, Jermaine Pennant, Wes Brown, Djibril Cisse, Glen Johnson, David Thompson, Dion Dublin, Keith Gillespie, and Patrik Berger. The event drew significant attention and showcased OTH's capability to host large-scale international sports events.
3. Hosting Basic Military Training Centre Passing Out Parades
With the redevelopment of The Float at Marina Bay, Our Tampines Hub has also become the venue for the Passing Out Parades of the Basic Military Training Centre starting in 2023. This decision underscores OTH's versatility and ability to accommodate a wide range of events beyond its original scope as a community and lifestyle hub.
Community Impact and Significance
1. A Model for Integrated Community Spaces
Our Tampines Hub has set a new benchmark for integrated community spaces in Singapore, combining sports, recreation, lifestyle, and public services into a single, comprehensive destination. By providing a wide range of facilities and services that cater to different age groups and interests, OTH has become a focal point for community engagement and interaction. Its resident-centric approach, reflected in the planning and development process, has made it a successful model for future community hubs in Singapore.
2. Enhancing Quality of Life for Residents
The integration of multiple amenities and services within Our Tampines Hub has significantly enhanced the quality of life for residents in Tampines and the surrounding areas. By bringing together diverse facilities such as sports complexes, libraries, dining options, and government services, OTH has created a convenient and vibrant environment that meets the everyday needs of residents. The hub's inclusive and community-oriented approach fosters a sense of belonging and encourages active participation in communal activities.
3. Promoting Sports and Active Lifestyles
As a hub for sports and recreation, Our Tampines Hub plays a crucial role in promoting active lifestyles among residents. With its extensive range of sports facilities, including swimming pools, a football stadium, and sports halls, OTH provides opportunities for residents of all ages to engage in physical activities and lead healthy lives. The hosting of major sports events, such as Singapore Premier League matches and international football games, further adds to the sporting culture in the community.
Our Tampines Hub stands as a remarkable example of how community planning and development can create vibrant, inclusive, and multifunctional spaces that enhance the lives of residents. With its comprehensive range of facilities, innovative public service model, and commitment to community engagement, OTH has become a landmark in Tampines and a model for integrated community spaces in Singapore. As the hub continues to evolve and adapt to the needs of its residents, it is poised to play an even more significant role in shaping the future of community life in Singapore.