Singapore's first sensory park

Your senses will be in for a treat at this park
Jessica Cheam, Straits Times 14 Dec 07;

SINGAPORE'S first sensory park - with features designed to stimulate all five senses - is being built in Toa Payoh for $3.5 million.

Unveiling the project yesterday, the Housing Board said many elderly people living in nearby estates will enjoy the Japanese-inspired park on completion in 2009.

For the sight-impaired, Braille signs will describe the plants nearby, while a range of flowers will offer sweet smells to residents on a leisurely evening walk.

The sight and sounds of water features will also vie for visitors' attention, along with sculptures to touch, and paving designed to create special sounds. For the adventurous, garden herbs and fruit trees will be on the menu too.

The 1.1ha pilot park, to be located at Toa Payoh Neighbourhood 2, will integrate a universal design - creating an environment suitable for people of all ages and abilities.

The park's concept, to rejuvenate the five senses by integrating features to stimulate them, originated in Osaka.

The head of HDB's redevelopment unit, Mrs Lee-Loy Kwee Wah, said that a study trip to Japan in 2005 was the source of HDB's inspiration for the park.

It has engaged landscape architect Yoshisuke Miyake, who pioneered the concept in Japan, to work with local architectural firm Surbana International to create Singapore's own sensory park.

Construction started in October and will be completed by the first quarter of 2009.

Mr Miyake told The Straits Times that, like Japan, Singapore has an increasing ageing population. 'People get more passive as they grow older, and to have things around you to stimulate your senses, is very soothing and has healing qualities,' he said.

In Osaka, for example, the Kansai Rosai Hospital has built its own sensory park for its patients, he said.

The park will also have an adjoining recreational area for playgrounds, a jogging track and exercise facilities.

Although the sensory park costs more than a normal park, Mrs Lee-Loy said it was 'worth it' considering the social benefits.

Vice-president Judy Wee of the Handicaps Welfare Association, said the park will be good for 'promoting an inclusive society'.

'Many Singaporeans don't know what universal design is currently. As it caters to people of all abilities, no one is left out, be it a grandparent or a grandchild or a disabled person.'

Resident Wong Thian Hock, 53, said he was looking forward to having the 'unusual park at his doorstep'.

'It's refreshing to be able to stimulate your senses on a daily walk,' he added.