PERMANENT PEDESTRIANISATION OF ORCHARD ROAD

Abstract

Since the 1960s, the concept of pedestrianisation has been used by many countries as an effective tool for traffic management, economic revitalisation, environmental improvements and enhancement of social benefits. In Singapore, a part of Orchard Road has been closed to vehicular traffic for festive celebrations, like Swing Singapore and Chingay Procession. These closures were only for a few hours, unlike those in the European and North American cities which are permanently closed. This dissertation looked into the possiblility of permanently pedestrianising the stretch of Orchard Road between Scotts Road and Grange Road. The findings of this study showed that the buildings in the area are still accessible should the proposed stretch be pedestrianised. But the presence of up-market retail outlets and offices may not allow the scheme to fully exploit its potential benefits. Therefore, although it is technically possible to pedestrianise, its other implications may not deem it feasible.