Planning and Design
The initial physical development master plan for Hulhumalé was drawn up by a consortium of consultants - namely AMC Architects International, J Pro Consultants and Binnie Black and Veatch Ltd - based on previous documents prepared by the Maldives Housing and Urban Development Board and Ministry of Construction and Public Works. This initial master plan was reviewed in 2006 by design consultants, Heng Chye Kiang & Low Boon Liang, at National University of Singapore (NUS).
The master plan of Hulhumalé aims to achieve the objectives for which the island was created through efficient design and development concepts. Economic districts are designated with a view to provide an exciting environment to live, work and play. The districts include the Waterfront district, Bay View Condominium district, Downtown Commercial district, Strait View district, Academic district, Residential Neighborhood district, Industrial district and the Civic center. A diverse array of land uses are provided within the economic districts.
The planning and design of the project is carried out with a view to deliver Hulhumalé as a well planned development which effectively utilizes the land to maximize environmental and economic efficiency in terms of productivity, provision of employment, and advance the quality of life for the population.
Green Plan
The master plan reflects on the importance of accessibility to green & open spaces to maximize economic and aesthetic value of Hulhumalé, and so strategic green links are designed through major residential, business and industrial districts. The green spaces act as buffers between these strategic land uses to create a more economically viable and aesthetically pleasing environment.
Blue Plan
The Master plan is designed to maximize the natural potential of the island as a waterfront oasis and sufficient accessibility to the Western foreshore waterfront is provided, enabling the space to be more vibrant, diverse and economically more valuable.
Road Network
The road network is planned to provide adequate access to the different land uses while reducing congestion and facilitating easy movement of people and goods in a safe, efficient and reliable manner. It is designed to increase the environmental and economic value of each individual land use by increasing market capture and decreasing costs.
Hulhumalé Access Points
There are two main modes of accessing Hulhumalé: by sea or land link. Main access to the island is by the passenger and cargo movement facilities available by the western sea front. The main passenger ferry terminal is situated there and the potential to develop additional jetties also exists in the area.
Hulhumalé can also be accessed from the 1800 meter long and 40 meter wide causeway stretching from the southern corner of Hulhumalé to the international airport, Hulhulé.
View Corridors
The master plan reflects on the importance of the potential economic and aesthetic value of oceanic views and open spaces being effectively utilized and so view corridors are strategically placed to secure scenic sightlines in order to further emphasize the quality of the island’s natural environment and to enhance the urban and environmental experience within the city.