Singapore’s sporting landscape is about to receive another exciting addition as the Little India Bus Terminal undergoes a remarkable transformation into recreational pickleball courts. This ambitious retrofitting project, spearheaded by Sport Singapore (SportSG), represents a strategic move to address the surging demand for pickleball facilities whilst maximising the use of existing public infrastructure.

The Transformation Project

On 10th October 2025, a Request for Quotation was published on GeBIZ, the government e-procurement portal, titled “Addition and Alteration (A&A) Works to Convert Sections of Little India Bus Terminal (LIBT) for Recreational Pickleball Activities”. The project, bearing reference number SSC000ETQ25000035, calls for the pickleball facilities to be delivered by 30th November 2025, signalling a swift implementation timeline.

The Little India Bus Terminal to pickleball courts conversion makes practical sense. Currently, the terminal operates solely as a pick-up point for private buses on Sundays, ferrying migrant workers back to their dormitories from Little India. Located along Tekka Lane, the terminal consists of two sheltered structures that remain largely unused throughout the week. By converting sections of this underutilised space for recreational pickleball use, SportSG effectively creates a dual-purpose facility that serves the community whilst avoiding the costs associated with constructing entirely new courts.

Strategic Location Benefits

The Little India Bus Terminal to pickleball courts project boasts an enviable location. Situated at 2 Race Course Road, Singapore 218537, the facility sits right next to Little India MRT Station, making it exceptionally accessible via public transport. Little India MRT Station serves as an interchange for both the North East Line and Downtown Line, providing seamless connectivity from various parts of Singapore.

This central location eliminates one of the primary barriers to sports participation—accessibility. Players can easily reach the courts without relying on private transport, encouraging more frequent use and fostering a vibrant pickleball community in the heart of one of Singapore’s most culturally rich neighbourhoods.

Understanding Singapore’s Pickleball Boom

The Little India Bus Terminal to pickleball courts conversion comes at a time when pickleball has exploded in popularity across Singapore. This paddle sport, which ingeniously combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has captured the imagination of Singaporeans across all age groups.

According to SportSG, ActiveSG facilities recorded approximately 8,000 pickleball court bookings per month in the first half of 2025—a dramatic increase from fewer than 20 monthly bookings just a few years ago. This surge reflects a broader trend observed globally, with pickleball becoming one of the fastest-growing sports internationally.

What Makes Pickleball So Appealing

Several factors contribute to pickleball’s meteoric rise in Singapore. The sport requires a relatively small court—just 20 feet by 44 feet, identical to a badminton doubles court—making it ideal for land-scarce Singapore. The smaller playing area also means less running compared to tennis, reducing physical strain whilst still providing excellent cardiovascular exercise.

The equipment is straightforward: solid paddles (smaller than tennis racquets) and a perforated plastic ball. The lightweight nature of these implements makes pickleball more forgiving on joints and suitable for players who may find tennis or badminton too physically demanding. The underhand serve requirement further lowers the barrier to entry, allowing beginners to start playing competently within their first few sessions.

Pickleball’s scoring system, typically played to 11 points with a two-point margin required to win, creates quick, dynamic matches that fit easily into busy schedules. The presence of the “non-volley zone” (affectionately termed “the kitchen”)—a seven-foot area on each side of the net where players cannot hit volleys—adds a unique strategic dimension that emphasises placement and finesse over raw power.

Health and Social Benefits

Beyond its accessibility, pickleball offers substantial health benefits. The sport provides excellent cardiovascular exercise, with studies suggesting that a 30-minute pickleball session can burn 40% more calories than walking for the same duration. The constant movement improves balance, hand-eye coordination, and reflexes whilst maintaining joint health through low-impact activity.

The quick decision-making required during fast-paced rallies helps keep cognitive functions sharp, potentially benefiting memory and mental acuity. Research has shown that paddle sports like pickleball can reduce mortality risk by 16%, outperforming several other forms of exercise.

Perhaps equally important is pickleball’s social dimension. The sport is predominantly played in doubles format, creating natural opportunities for social interaction. The shorter, more frequent breaks between points and games facilitate conversation and community building. During the pandemic, when many traditional social activities were restricted, pickleball provided a safe, outdoor option for maintaining social connections—a factor that significantly contributed to its popularity surge.

Addressing the Demand-Supply Gap

Despite the growing number of facilities, securing a pickleball court in Singapore remains challenging. About 70 courts are currently available through ActiveSG, including those under the dual-use scheme where school facilities open to the public on weekends. However, demand far outstrips supply, with bookings becoming increasingly competitive.

Private venues offer alternatives, but hourly rentals typically range from $20 to $40, compared to ActiveSG’s more affordable $3.50 to $7.40 per hour for indoor courts. This pricing disparity means public facilities remain highly sought after, necessitating projects like the Little India Bus Terminal to pickleball courts conversion.

Pickleball coach Wil Heng noted the dramatic change in court availability since he started playing in 2022. “If there is one court to play, the ratio will be maybe 50 people fighting for it,” Heng observed, explaining why he now books off-peak hours to secure playing time.

SportSG’s Broader Expansion Strategy

The Little India Bus Terminal to pickleball courts project represents one component of SportSG’s comprehensive strategy to expand Singapore’s pickleball infrastructure. The agency has been working with schools to increase availability under the dual-use scheme, collaborating with town councils and the People’s Association to identify suitable locations for new facilities.

In August 2025, the Singapore Land Authority announced that a state property at 179 Piccadilly in Seletar would be earmarked for sports use, providing at least eight pickleball courts. Additionally, Chua Chu Kang is scheduled to receive a new pickleball court near an existing sports facility in the first quarter of 2026.

This multi-pronged approach—retrofitting existing structures, repurposing underutilised state properties, and constructing new dedicated facilities—demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting pickleball’s growth whilst managing Singapore’s limited land resources efficiently.

What to Expect from the New Facility

Whilst specific details about the Little India Bus Terminal to pickleball courts configuration remain to be announced, the sheltered nature of the existing terminal structures suggests players will benefit from weather protection—a significant advantage in Singapore’s tropical climate. Sheltered courts allow for year-round play regardless of rain or intense sun, maximising facility utilisation and player comfort.

The central location means the facility will likely attract a diverse mix of players, from office workers seeking lunchtime exercise to families enjoying weekend recreation. The proximity to Little India’s vibrant cultural precinct also creates opportunities for players to combine their sporting activities with dining and shopping, potentially boosting the local economy.

Community Impact and Considerations

The transformation of the Little India Bus Terminal to pickleball courts will undoubtedly benefit the local community by providing accessible recreational facilities. However, pickleball’s popularity has not been without challenges. The sport’s distinctive sound—a sharp “pop” when paddle meets ball—can reach up to 70 decibels, roughly double the noise level of tennis.

In other countries, this noise has sparked complaints from residents living near pickleball courts, with some cases even resulting in lawsuits. Singapore has experienced similar concerns where courts are located close to residential areas. The Little India Bus Terminal’s location, somewhat removed from immediate residential blocks, may help mitigate potential noise issues, though this remains to be seen once operations commence.

Looking Ahead

As the November 2025 completion deadline approaches, anticipation builds within Singapore’s pickleball community. The official opening date for the Little India Bus Terminal to pickleball courts has yet to be confirmed, but the facility is expected to welcome players shortly after construction completion.

This project exemplifies innovative urban planning—taking an asset that sits idle most of the week and transforming it into a community resource that promotes active living. It demonstrates how careful consideration of existing infrastructure can yield solutions to contemporary challenges without requiring extensive new construction.

For Singapore’s growing legion of pickleball enthusiasts, the Little India Bus Terminal to pickleball courts conversion represents more than just additional playing space. It symbolises recognition of the sport’s place in Singapore’s recreational landscape and commitment to supporting active lifestyles across diverse communities.

Getting Started with Pickleball

For those inspired to try pickleball at the new Little India facility once it opens, getting started is straightforward. Most venues offer equipment rental, allowing newcomers to try the sport without initial investment. A basic pickleball paddle typically costs between $30 and $200, depending on materials and quality, whilst balls are relatively inexpensive.

Many facilities, including ActiveSG locations, offer beginner group classes ranging from $30 to $50 per session, providing structured introduction to the sport’s rules and techniques. The combination of accessible equipment, affordable court fees, and welcoming community makes pickleball an attractive option for anyone seeking a new recreational activity.

The Little India Bus Terminal to pickleball courts project stands as testament to Singapore’s ability to adapt and evolve its sporting infrastructure to meet changing community needs. As the facility nears completion, it promises to become another landmark in Singapore’s pickleball journey—a journey that shows no signs of slowing down.