Heritage

Preserving four conserved buildings, including historic military blocks and the iconic NCO Club, alongside two distinctive new towers, this site, once a former military camp, now celebrates its legacy as a transformed, dynamic mixed-use development.

Former Beach Road Camp

Former Beach Road Camp

Former Beach Road Camp
Former Beach Road Camp

Former Beach Road Camp

The former Beach Road Camp, located where South Beach stands today, was a prominent military site. Built in the 1930s, the camp served as the headquarters for home-grown military forces, handling recruitments, training, and mobilisation. Comprising three military blocks—1, 9, and 14—the camp eventually became the venue for Singapore’s first National Service enlistment in 1967. The neighbouring Non-Commissioned Officers' Club, fondly known as The NCO Club, adjacent to Block 14, became a favourite haunt for army, naval, and air force officers and was famed for its Olympic-size swimming pool.

Camp Closure in 2000

Camp Closure in 2000

In 1965, Singapore gained independence, and the Singapore Volunteer Corps (SVC) became the People’s Defence Force (PDF). By 1967, compulsory conscription began, enrolling part-time servicemen into the PDF, the Vigilante Corps, or the Special Constabulary. In 1997, the PDF was restructured into operational battalions at different locations, leading to the closure of the camp in 2000.

Post-Closure Conservation

Post-Closure Conservation

Post-Closure Conservation

Post-Closure Conservation

In 2002, the former Block 1, 9, 14, and The NCO building were gazetted for conservation by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). In 2007, South Beach Consortium won the site tender and created South Beach, a mixed-use development that houses offices, luxury residences, retail spaces, and a hotel with club amenities, preserving the area’s heritage in its historical structures.

Discover Our Four
Conserved Buildings

The NCO Club - A restored heritage building that blends colonial charm with modern dining and lifestyle experiences such as Madame Fan, Fish Pool, Cool Cats and Stags’ Room

Grand Ballroom – Formerly Block 9 or The Drill Hall, beautifully combines timeless heritage with contemporary elegance, hosting stunning weddings and unforgettable events in a refined, classic setting.

South Beach Quarter – Formerly Block 1, is the oldest of the four conserved buildings. Originally built for ammunition storage, parts of it were also used as barracks for soldiers.

The Assembly – Formerly Block 14 and once home to the SAF Court Martial Centre, is now a refined space featuring elegant meeting rooms, managed by JW Marriott Singapore South Beach

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