RESIDENTS' PERCEPTION AND EXPECTATION OF ECO-PRECINCT IN PUNGGOL NEW TOWN

Abstract

With the increased attention on global environmental concerns and sustainable developments, eco-development is becoming a common solution. Despite the prevalence of eco-developments in other countries, the concept and progress of eco-development in Singapore is still at its infancy stage. The Housing and Development Board has proposed the first Eco-Precinct in Punggol New Town. This new development has incorporated sustainable green features to create an environment-friendly place for the residents to live. This study aims to find out residents’ perception, expectation and lifestyle of the first eco-precinct in Singapore. By conducting face-to-face surveys, the respondents’ views were gathered and their suggestions for the improvement of future eco-precinct development were presented. The study showed that eco-precinct could benefit the residents in several areas including improving their health and promoting their quality of life. Results from the survey revealed that female respondents were more concerned with environmental and aesthetic benefits of eco-precinct, whereas male respondents were more particular with economic benefit. It was also found that the respondents generally welcomed the concept of eco-precinct as a form of public housing. However, the economic and environmental aspects remained a major concern for the respondents.