ROLE OF TOWN PARKS IN SINGAPORE, THE - A CASE STUDY OF CLEMENTI WOODS

Abstract

This is a case study conducted at Clementi Woods Park to explore the role of a town park in Singapore. It aims to determine if the objective of Clementi Woods meets the needs and perceptions of the residents living in its vicinity. Surveys were undertaken for both users and non-users of the park. Findings show that the park is underutilised by users most of the time mainly due to the lack of facilities and perceived danger in certain isolated areas. Accessibility within the various zones in the park could also be improved through a better network of internal linkages. As for non-users, the most common reason for either going to the park only once in a long while or have never been to it, is that they are extremely busy with their daily commitments. Pertaining to recommendations, many respondents suggested the upgrading of the park's facilities to meet more of the needs of the elderly and the very young, and to improve the general safety level of all users of the park. Hence, it may be timely to review the role of town parks due to its underutilisation problem and evaluate various alternative solutions, such as the possibility of combining recreational and other community resources to serve the town residents.