MRT SYSTEM AND ATTRACTIVENESS OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES (PUBLIC HOUSING)

Abstract

There has always existed a close relationship between available transportation and the spatial growth pattern of cities. The type of transportation mode affects the internal circulation which determines the size and spatial pattern of the city itself. This dissertation attempts to examine whether the presence of the MRT has enhanced the attractiveness of these New Towns as well as its influence on public housing selection choice. Preliminary examinations of this study indicate that the MRT has indeed made Yishun and Pasir Ris New Towns a more attractive place to live in. Generally, most of the public housing flat applicants admitted that the presence of the MRT has influenced them in one way or another in their housing selection choice. The introduction of the Mass Rapid Transit System (hereinafter refer to as MRT) has launched Singapore and its population into a new era of living and travel, not to mention the restructuring of the spatial pattern of growth of the urban areas. Due to its exclusive right-of-way, the MRT has provided greater access to commercial developments where great emphasis on accessibility to shoppers and clients cannot be undermined. Likewise, the presence of the MRT has also provided Housing Development Board New Towns like Yishun and Pasir Ris which are located in the suburban areas with faster access to the Central Area and Orchard Road Area.