Tenders to be called for two blocks at Gillman Barracks
They will be launched later this year to inject vibrancy to the arts enclave
Tenders calling for creative lifestyle uses for two vacant buildings in Gillman Barracks will be launched later this year in an effort to inject vibrancy to the arts enclave off Alexandra Road.
The first site is Block 43, with a gross floor area (GFA) of 1,167 sq m, where interested parties are invited to propose creative lifestyle concepts.
These could include, but are not limited to, art galleries, co-working spaces, sports and wellness, food and beverage (F&B), and retail, said the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) yesterday.
A smaller site at Block 9A, with a GFA of about 342 sq m, will be put up for F&B and retail use. It used to house F&B outlet Timbre @ Gillman and comes with a sheltered outdoor area.
"These tenders will support the introduction of innovative and new creative lifestyle concepts at Gillman Barracks that may drive constant traffic and footfall to the area," the SLA added.
A longer upfront tenure of five years, renewable for another three years, will be offered.
As part of the SLA's push to make Gillman Barracks a sustainable and eco-friendly cluster, green infrastructure enhancements such as energy-efficient lighting and ventilation will be taken into consideration when assessing the quality component of the proposal.
Other green initiatives such as using biodegradable packaging and curating programmes and activities to support sustainability initiatives are encouraged.
PROGRAMMING
The SLA, which took over the lease and estate management of the former military barracks-turned-arts enclave from JTC Corporation in March last year, is working with the National Arts Council on programming of the enclave.
Gillman Barracks has a total of 17 blocks - including the two vacant sites - housing 11 art galleries and six F&B establishments.
Yesterday, the SLA said the existing 11 art galleries will be offered a longer upfront tenure of five years, renewable for another three years when their current tenancies expire on Feb 28 next year.
The SLA will launch an expression of interest to determine if there is any market interest in the six sites currently occupied by F&B establishments, whose tenancies will also expire on Feb 28 next year.
Existing tenants will be given the option to renew their leases if there are no other interested bidders for the site, added the SLA.
Ms Mae Anderson, chairman of Art Outreach, said she intends to take up the tenure offer as the art education non-profit group has built up a brand identity associated with Gillman Barracks since it moved into Block 47 nine years ago.
She also welcomed the move to inject new blood into the enclave.
"Art is a strong identity here, but having a diverse mix of creative lifestyle tenants may help cross-refer customers. I feel it is the ingredient that has been missing for a long time," she said.
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