Amidst Singapore’s rapidly ageing population, the redevelopment of Alexandra Hospital aims to meet increasing healthcare demands. However, limited walkability between Queenstown MRT station and the hospital, due to the lack of direct routes and the hilly terrain of the ageing Mei Ling/Stirling neighbourhood, presents a challenge.

This study aims to improve pedestrian connections between Alexandra Hospital, Queenstown MRT station and the Mei Ling/Stirling neighbourhood, and to enable ageing-in-place while enhancing the overall well-being of Mei Ling/Stirling residents. Using mixed research methods, including literature review, surveys, observations and interviews, researchers will gain comprehensive insights to develop planning and design strategies.

The expected outcome of the study is the identification of primary pedestrian connections (“tentacles”) linking the hospital and MRT station through the Mei Ling/Stirling neighbourhood, as well as secondary connections to strengthen neighbourhood connectivity. Along these “tentacles”, nodes will be proposed, accommodating community-based healthcare facilities, activities and programmes to support ageing-in-place.

The study will make significant contributions to developing mid-range theories to improve the built environment for healthcare model transformation and enable ageing-in-place by retrofitting existing infrastructure. This will aid all residents to remain within their communities while accessing healthcare efficiently.