Come 2018, nature lovers, joggers and cyclists will have a verdant new trail to explore in the green heart of Singapore.
The 30km loop around the Central Catchment Nature Reserve will be linked to the Western Adventure Park Connector Loop and other park connectors, and join up with the Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park and the Dairy Farm Nature Park, among other areas.
The loop will be built around the forest perimeters “to safeguard the high biodiversity cores of the reserve”, said the National Parks Board (NParks).
The plan was one of several announced by Minister of State (National Development and Manpower) Tan Chuan-Jin yesterday to bring Singaporeans closer to nature - and vice versa.
Speaking at the inaugural Festival of Biodiversity, Mr Tan also revealed that an 80ha plot outside the Central Catchment Nature Reserve will be developed into Chestnut Nature Park.
The new park will feature amenities for nature walks, hiking and mountain biking. It hosts a rich biodiversity of wildlife, including the mousedeer, pangolin, monitor lizard and birds. There will be panoramic views of the nature reserve to be enjoyed at a new seven-storey tower - which will also facilitate research on animals that live among the tree canopies.
The development of the park - due to be finished by early 2015 - will involve the community in planting native plants and trees.
Another seven-storey tower will be built at MacRitchie Reservoir Park by 2018, to offer visitors more scenic views.
NParks will also work with nature groups to infuse more biodiversity into the urban landscape.
Noting the success of efforts to re-introduce the Oriental Pied Hornbill - which was locally extinct for more than 100 years, until artificial nesting boxes were set up in recent years - Mr Tan said NParks aims next to attract more species such as the Crimson Sunbird, Common Birdwing Butterfly and Lesser Whistling Duck into Singapore’s urban green spaces.
“In 10 years’ time, perhaps Singaporeans can have pleasant encounters with biodiversity on a daily basis,” he said. “This is where I have to encourage all of you who are happy to see the birdlife returning back to Singapore, to encourage your neighbours and friends, who may sometimes complain about the birds’ droppings … It’s a happy problem to have.”
The Festival of Biodiversity is also on today at the Singapore Botanic Gardens. There are free activities for the public, such as exhibitions, workshops and guided walks.
