USE OF TRANSFERABLE DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS

Abstract

The issue of betterment and worsenment is part and parcel of all planning systems working within a democratic and open market environment. The traditional approach is to treat each aspect separately, and devise measures to deal with them. Singapore is no exception, with measures such as development charge and compensation under the Land Acquisition Act as examples. The objective is to seek a balance in the protection of both private property ownership and social benefits. Transferable Development Rights (TDR) has been proposed as an alternative method to deal with this conflict. Essentially, it aims to provide a system whereby orderly reallocation of density within the urban environment can meet legitimate planning objectives without placing unreasonable burdens on either the property owner or the community. It is an attempt to deal with the twin problems of equity for landowners and effectiveness in land use regulation. As Singapore moves toward greater awareness of its environmental problems, public demand for the conservation of its historical areas will increase. But conservation is not without its price, both to the community and the owners. The concept of TDR may be a possible solution for Singapore, one that will meet the needs of the owners, developers and the community.