We review plenty of cars. But actually, most cars spend more of their time stationary - i.e. in a parking lot. So, we thought it might also be useful (and kinda fun) to also take some time to review carparks.  

In fact, carparks are a function of urban design and architecture - separate but not independent of us as car users. The reality, also, is that carparks are not built equally (even building standards and statutes change over time).  

First one, then. Ocean Financial Centre, right smack in the heart of Raffles Place.  

Manoeuvrability: Tight or not?  

Generally okay. The carpark is built within an awkwardly-shaped space, so there are pillars everywhere and rows of lots in slightly odd angles. In general, it's on the narrow-ish side, but definitely passable for most modern cars. It accommodates big cars, as evidenced by the Alphard in the carpark, so towkay 5 Series and E-Classes should have no issue.  

7/10 

Ease of navigation: Confusing or not?  

Not too confusing. There are multiple ways to turn within the carpark, and there are also some dead ends. But otherwise, it's a sensibly laid out carpark with good signage throughout. It's also worth pointing out that there's no access back to B1 from B2/B3. You must exit, then re-enter. 

7/10 

Lot availability: Crowded or not?  

220 lots available, and it's sort of crowded. It's CBD, so it's always going to be crowded on weekdays. But because it's so expensive, the public parking area is not going to be full (season parking is above ground, not underground), and lots are generally available on the lower floors.  

7/10  

Cost: Expensive or not?  

Horrifyingly. $1.20/10min from 6am to 6.29pm. That's $7.20 an hour. You'll be hard pressed to find more expensive parking than this (in the vicinity, the only more shocking one is The Sail @ Marina Bay at $4/hr). Even after working hour charges ($5.90/entry) is more expensive than you'll find across most CBD carparks.  

 0/10 

EV Chargers: Can charge or not?  

Yes. There's one. Availability is probably going to be an issue, but at least a charging lot exists.

1/10

Motorcycle lots: Bike-friendly or not?  

No. Booo 👎 There are bicycle bays though.  

0/10 

Accessibility: Can find or not?  

Yes. Not hard to find, it's along Collyer Quay, just keep left from Finlayson Green. That general area is a traffic nightmare, but the carpark itself is very accessible.  

8/10 

Overall verdict: Good or not? 

It's a good carpark, if you needed to park your car (not motorbike) at Raffles Place - well located, fairly easy to negotiate, lot availability should never be an issue (unless you want to charge your EV). But god damn the price.  

4/10