The Housing and Development Board (HDB) announced on July 10, 2026, that approximately 15 hectares of the 23-hectare Maju Forest in Clementi will be cleared for new public housing. This greenfield site, located near Sunset Way, has been zoned for residential use in Singapore’s Master Plan since 1980. The development aims to address the ongoing demand for housing in the country, with analysts suggesting the site could contribute to a significant pipeline of new homes in the coming years.
To balance urban expansion with environmental considerations, HDB plans to retain about 8 hectares of the forest. This preserved area includes a natural freshwater stream and vegetation identified as having high biodiversity value. The site also encompasses the former Old Jurong Railway Line, which is currently being studied for a new 4-kilometer nature trail. These measures are intended to provide a refuge for local wildlife and maintain ecological connectivity to surrounding green spaces.
An environmental study commissioned by HDB recorded 113 fauna species within the forest, including six species of conservation significance such as the straw-headed bulbul and the buffy fish-owl. To mitigate the impact on these animals, HDB stated that site clearance will occur in phases, allowing wildlife to relocate to adjacent areas. Additionally, the agency plans to salvage plants of conservation significance before construction begins and incorporate native greenery into the future estate.
Nature groups have been engaged throughout the planning process, and the public is invited to provide feedback on the development plans. The final housing yield, flat mix, and project timeline will be determined after considering these inputs and the findings of the environmental reports. As Singapore continues to navigate the trade-offs between land scarcity and conservation, the Maju Forest project highlights the government's approach to integrating nature into new residential developments.