Marina Bay

Much of the land around Marina Bay did not exist a few decades ago: in the 1970s much of the area was still open sea. Land reclamation carried out over several decades pushed the shoreline outwards, and the Urban Redevelopment Authority set out a long-term vision for a new downtown in its 1983 Master Plan. Over more than 30 years of planning and investment the area grew into an extension of the Central Business District.

The completion of the Marina Barrage across the Marina Channel in 2008 turned the bay into a freshwater reservoir. In 2010 the Helix Bridge, the Marina Bay Sands integrated resort and the 3.5 km waterfront promenade all opened, the promenade officially on 18 July 2010, making it possible to walk right around the bay. The floating platform on the bay has hosted the National Day Parade, New Year countdowns and the 2010 Youth Olympic Games ceremonies.

Marina Bay is Singapore's stage for national celebrations. The National Day Parade, New Year's Eve countdown fireworks and festival light-ups all play out over the water, and locals gather on the promenade and bridges to watch. On ordinary evenings you will see office workers jogging after work, families out for a stroll and couples taking in the skyline, making it as much a part of city life as it is a visitor attraction.