Coney Island (pictured) off Punggol is set to be the ninth nature park in Singapore, according to the National Parks Board (NParks). The island, which is rich in biodiversity and a popular fishing spot for anglers, will become a 50-ha ‘green lung’.

The area has lush flora that covers 90 percent of the island, and is home to wildlife species like the white-bellied sea eagle.

The nature park will be ready in two years and a tender will be announced this year. Under the 2008 Master Plan, the island is designated as an open space and a park.

“Now that Punggol is an up-and-coming town, it is the right time to develop a nature park there,” said Yeo Meng Tong, Director of Parks Development at NParks.

NParks is seeking to leave the island as untouched as possible, with non-concrete footpaths and very few lights to avoid disturbing wildlife. The design could be based on Tampines Eco Green, which is the country’s latest nature park.

Meanwhile, two other NParks projects will be launched. These are small community parks with a size of less than one-ha. The first will be nestled at the junction of Holland Road and Holland Avenue, while the second will be located in the Springleaf housing estate near Upper Thomson Road.

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