ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF THE MRT ON A SHOPPING DISTRICT: NORTH BRIDGE ROAD/ COLEMAN STREET AREA

Abstract

The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is a catalytic force. Theoretically, an improvement in the technology or structure of transport will lead to an increase in the economic activities of an area. This dissertation attempts to ascertain whether this theory can be applied in the Singapore context. Thus, a case study was carried out at the North Bridge Road / Coleman Street focus and Peninsula Shopping Centre is specifically selected for the study. In order to assess the impact of the MRT, two sets of questionnaire are designed for the shoppers and tenants. It is aimed at finding out whether the MRT has any influence on the economic activities at Peninsula Shopping Centre. It is found that Peninsula Shopping Centre does not seem to be an attractive place for the shoppers. In addition, the MRT does not seem to be convenient to the shoppers and has not improved the pedestrian flow to the shopping centre. The shoppers feel that the MRT is not a attractive mode of transport to the study shopping centre. The tenants in Peninsula Shopping Centre also feel that the operation of the MRT has not resulted in an improvement in their business, the reason being that Peninsula Shopping Centre is located outside the 460 metre threshold. There is a strong tendency for shoppers who travel by the MRT to this area to be attracted to the more prestigious and modern shopping centres nearer to the MRT station. The sentiments of the shoppers are negative for the future. They feel that their shopping frequency to Peninsula Shopping Centre will decrease after the completion of the MRT because Orchard Road will by then be more accessible. The tenants share the same sentiment too. They feel that their business will not improve and see the development of Marina City as a threat. Thus, the study concludes that the MRT does not have any positive impact on Peninsula Shopping Centre. Recommendations to improve the businesses in Peninsula Shopping Centre are proposed and studies for further research are also highlighted.