In a recent announcement, the Singapore Turf Club revealed that it will close its doors in October 2024. The government has decided to redevelop the 120-hectare site in Kranji, with the land being handed back in 2027 for various purposes, including public housing, leisure, and recreation.
The decision, while not easy, is seen as a necessary step in meeting Singapore’s increasing land demands and adapting to changing times.
Over the past decade, spectatorship at the Singapore Turf Club has steadily declined. The average attendance per race day dropped from 11,000 in 2010 to approximately 6,000 in 2019.
Even after reopening in 2022 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, only 2,600 spectators attended each race day. This decline in spectatorship is not unique to Singapore, as other countries have also experienced similar trends.
Financial Realities and Employee Support
The closure of the Singapore Turf Club will have financial implications for the Singapore Tote Board, which currently earns around S$400,000 per race. However, with the diminishing interest in horse racing, the turnover from races as a percentage of the Tote Board’s total turnover has also decreased significantly.
Singapore Pools will continue to offer to bet on overseas horse racing, ensuring some continuity for horse racing enthusiasts.
The decision to redevelop the racecourse site aligns with the government’s broader plans for the northern region of Singapore. It allows for holistic master planning and a comprehensive vision for the area.
The government is considering various uses for the land, including public housing, leisure, and recreation facilities. Additionally, the government believes that the Kranji site’s 120 hectares provide a unique opportunity for such developments, considering the scarcity of similar-sized parcels in Singapore.
The closure of the Singapore Turf Club will undoubtedly impact its employees, with all 350 staff members being retrenched in phases starting in approximately 16 months. However, the government is committed to supporting these employees, including retrenchment packages, job placement assistance, counselling, and skills training.
The aim is to ensure a smooth transition for the affected individuals and minimize the impact on their livelihoods.
black and white picture of Bukit Timah Racecourse by Bukit Timah Turf Club, currently known as Singapore Turf Club | Image from Singapore Turf Club
The Government’s Vision
While the closure of the Singapore Turf Club marks the end of an era, it is a decision that reflects Singapore’s evolving needs and aspirations. By repurposing the land, Singapore aims to optimize land use and meet the changing demands of its citizens.
The government’s commitment to providing timely updates on the land use plans demonstrates its dedication to transparency and ensuring stakeholders have sufficient time to adjust their arrangements.
As the Singapore Turf Club prepares for its final race meeting, it is clear that the decision to revamp the site is driven by a desire to invest in Singapore’s future. The transformation of the Kranji site will benefit the local community and pave the way for future generations. The Singapore Turf Club recognizes the value of this transition and remains aligned with the government’s vision.
