URA updates Community/Sports Facilities Scheme guidelines

The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has issued updated guidelines for the Community/Sports Facilities Scheme (CSFS), effective from 21 August 2026. These guidelines supersede the previous version from 2020 and apply to all new applications submitted on or after the effective date. The CSFS allows bonus Gross Floor Area (GFA) for community and sports uses in highly accessible commercial developments, subject to a cap of 10% of the maximum permissible GFA under the Master Plan or 2,000sqm, whichever is lower.

Key updates include the cessation of support for new childcare centres, as the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) no longer endorses them as an allowable community use under the CSFS. Existing childcare centres previously approved will continue to be supported. Arts uses endorsed by the National Arts Council (NAC) and the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) are now formally recognised as allowable community uses under the CSFS.

The revised guidelines are detailed in Appendix 1, which outlines planning requirements, allowable uses, and endorsement processes. Developers and planners are advised to refer to the updated Development Control Handbooks for the most current information.