Singapore’s Marina Square to shut for four-year redevelopment, leaving parents worried about playgrounds

Marina Square shopping centre in Singapore, which will close on March 31, 2027 for redevelopment. — Picture from https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=513984

By Malay Mail

First Published: Tuesday, 01 Sep 2026 2:19 PM MYT

Last Modified: Tuesday, 01 Sep 2026 2:23 PM MYT

SINGAPORE, Sept 1 — Marina Square shopping centre will close from March 31, 2027 for a major redevelopment that will transform the site into a mixed-use destination with luxury residences, serviced apartments, offices, a new hotel and a revamped retail mall.

The Straits Times reported that Singapore Land Group (SingLand), the property developer behind the project, said the redevelopment covers more than 360,000 sq m and is expected to be completed in 2031.

A new 304-room hotel will be added to the site, while the existing Pan Pacific Singapore, Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay and Mandarin Oriental Singapore will remain open throughout the redevelopment.

Marina Square will be redeveloped into a four-storey retail mall with more food and beverage options, as well as pet-friendly spaces.

Three new towers will also be built, including a 49-storey residential tower with 204 luxury homes ranging from three- to five-bedroom apartments and penthouses.

Another mixed-use tower will include eight floors of offices with about 13,000 sq m of lettable space, while serviced apartments will also be part of the wider development.

SingLand chief executive Jonathan Eu said the project would “reimagine Marina Square as a more connected and compelling destination”, combining homes, serviced apartments, workplaces, hotels and retail.

The announcement has nevertheless unsettled parents who regularly bring their children to Marina Square, which is known for its indoor playgrounds and children-focused outlets.

Mother-of-one Chia Xinyi said she was surprised the mall would shut completely and wondered where its playgrounds would go.

Her family regularly visits Pororo Park, an 11,000 sq ft indoor playground, although she said she had not bought an advance membership package.

Another parent, Low Liqi, said her family would miss VroomTown Driving City, an indoor attraction where children can learn traffic rules and try simulated driving.

She said the driving and car-washing activities were particularly enjoyable for young children and that the attraction was among the few playgrounds where parents did not have to constantly chase after their children.

The Straits Times has sought comments from Pororo Park, VroomTown Driving City and other children-focused businesses at Marina Square on their plans following the closure.

SingLand said it would organise events and activities ahead of the closure to support shopper traffic and retail sales, while working with stakeholders to minimise disruption and maintain access to the hotels during the redevelopment.