Dover Forest

Overview

Dover Forest, previously known as the Ulu Pandan Forest, was a 33-hectare secondary forest located in western Singapore, near the Dover and Ulu Pandan area. The forest, which developed naturally on abandoned land, served as a critical green space for biodiversity and a buffer for the urban landscape.

In 2021, Dover Forest was earmarked for residential development as part of Singapore’s Housing and Development Board (HDB) efforts to address the growing demand for public housing. Despite significant public resistance, the forest has since been cleared, and construction for new HDB estates is underway.

Historical Significance

Dover Forest was a symbol of Singapore’s balancing act between urban development and environmental conservation. As a secondary forest, it harbored rich biodiversity, with over 120 plant species and 150 animal species, including critically endangered wildlife like the Sunda Pangolin and Straw-headed Bulbul. The forest also served as a natural carbon sink, mitigating urban heat and providing a habitat for local wildlife.

Before its clearance, Dover Forest was recognized as one of the few remaining green spaces in the Ulu Pandan area, providing ecological and recreational value to nearby residents.

The Development Debate

Initial Announcement

In 2021, the government announced plans to develop Dover Forest for residential housing, in line with the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) Master Plan. The development was seen as necessary to accommodate Singapore’s increasing housing needs.

Public Response and Backlash

The announcement was met with strong public resistance. Environmentalists, academics, and residents expressed concerns about the loss of biodiversity and the impact on the local environment. A petition opposing the development garnered over 20,000 signatures. Key concerns included:

Irreversible damage to Singapore's biodiversity.
The availability of alternative brownfield sites for redevelopment.
The diminishing number of natural green spaces in the urban landscape.

Government’s Response

In July 2021, following public feedback, the government revised its plans to preserve part of the forest. However, the compromise still involved clearing the eastern section for residential development. The western portion was set aside to become a green corridor for biodiversity and recreational purposes.

Clearance and Development

By 2023, the eastern section of Dover Forest had been cleared, and construction began for a new HDB estate in the area. This estate is expected to feature sustainable design elements, including energy-efficient buildings, green rooftops, and communal spaces to foster a sense of community.

The cleared land now forms the basis of one of Singapore’s modern residential developments, which will accommodate thousands of residents in the coming years.

The western portion of the forest, which was initially set aside for preservation, has been repurposed into a smaller, landscaped park to retain some of the area’s natural character. This park is part of Singapore’s broader efforts under the Green Plan 2030, aiming to enhance urban greenery and biodiversity.

Timeline of Events

Year	Event	Details
2021	Development Announced	Government announced plans to clear Dover Forest for HDB housing.
2021	Public Feedback	Over 20,000 people signed a petition opposing the development.
2021	Revised Plans	Eastern portion designated for development; western portion for preservation.
2023	Clearance of Dover Forest	Eastern section of the forest cleared for construction.
2024	Construction of New HDB Estate Underway	Development of a sustainable housing estate in progress.