EVALUATION OF RECREATIONAL FACILITIES IN HDB TOWNS

Abstract

The developments of the past few decades have brought a massive change to the landscape and the residential patterns of Singapore. More than 85% of the population has since been relocated from the former slums into new high rise and high density public housing. Such a dramatic physical change has significant impact on the society. This is particularly evidenced in the area of recreation where the attitude towards leisure pursuits is always changing. Years of economic prosperity have brought along among other attributes, rising expectations for a higher quality of life. However the physical limitation of the city-state has imposed restrictions on solution to recreational needs. Rising population and the lack of space has caused the government to prioritize land use. Careful consideration must be made in allocating land for recreation so as to exploit its maximum potential. It will be a waste of resources if the land use for recreation is under-utilize. Thus it is important to know that the recreation facilities provided in the HDB towns were able to satisfy the needs of the residents. This study examines the adequacy of the recreational facilities provided in the HDB Towns and to analyse factors influencing the level of utilization. Innovation in the provision of recreational facilities will also be highlighted.