Formalisation Of Revitalisation Measures at Boat Quay Historic District, Upper Circular Road Area and Clarke Quay Conservation Area
Continued nightlife approvals, extended liquor hours and Circular Road closures may strengthen commercial demand and footfall across the Singapore River’s mixed-use conservation precincts.
The Government will permanently adopt Boat Quay and Clarke Quay revitalisation measures from 18 August 2026 after approving 37 new nightlife-use applications during the pilot.
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Following the encouraging results from the one-year pilot of revitalisation measures at the Boat Quay Historic District, Upper Circular Road area and Clarke Quay Conservation Area, the Government will formalise these measures with effect from Tuesday, 18 August 2026.
One-year pilot introduced to enhance vibrancy
Located within the historic Singapore River precinct, the Boat Quay Historic District and Clarke Quay Conservation Area are prominent waterfront destinations. As distinctive low-rise, mixed-use districts along the Singapore River, they continue to play an important role in Singapore’s lifestyle landscape.
To enhance vibrancy and provide opportunities for businesses in these areas, the Government had introduced a one-year pilot on 18 August 2025, comprising the following revitalisation measures:
Allowing new Change of Use applications for new bars, pubs and nightclubs within the Boat Quay Historic District along the Boat Quay Waterfront, Circular Road, Lorong Telok and Canton Street, with approved proposals granted Temporary Permission for up to three years;
Extension of liquor trading hours to 4am (the following day) on all Thursday and Friday nights in the Boat Quay Historic District, Clarke Quay Conservation Area and Upper Circular Road area; and
Resumption of road closures at Circular Road for events and pedestrian-friendly activities.
Encouraging results from the pilot
The pilot has seen strong interest from businesses. Between August 2025 and June 2026, URA has approved 37 applications for new nightlife uses in the Boat Quay Historic District where new applications can be considered. SPF approved 92 applications to extend liquor trading hours within the Clarke Quay Conservation Area, Boat Quay Historic District and Upper Circular Road area.
With support from local stakeholders in stepping up security patrols, the law-and-order situation in the precinct has remained stable throughout the pilot. Together with the positive response and feedback received from local stakeholders, the Government will formalise the revitalisation measures, with effect from 18 August 2026. Businesses may continue to apply for the relevant approvals, such as Change of Use applications and extended liquor trading hours.
Conclusion
The Government will continue to work with local stakeholders to facilitate nightlife vibrancy in the Boat Quay Historic District and neighbouring areas. At the same time, public safety and security remain a priority. The respective agencies will continue to work with local stakeholders on security measures to ensure law and order as well as responsible management of the nightlife spaces and public areas at these locations.
MINISTRY OF TRADE & INDUSTRY
MINISTRY OF NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS