IS SINGAPORE UNIVERSAL-DESIGN FRIENDLY? A STUDY OF ORCHARD ROAD PEDESTRIAN ACCESSIBILITY

Abstract

Abstract In Singapore universal design (UD) is increasingly being valued due to the expanding population of people with varying degree of abilities and advancing years, their demands for recognition and desire for independent living. To address these needs, BCA introduced a new Universal Design Guide in September 2007, providing a more complete set of guidelines as compared to the Code on Barrier-Free Accessibility in Buildings 1990, for adoption in all building design. However, there exist a relatively large number of pre-1990 buildings that are considered “Inaccessible”. With this situation, a 5-year Barrier-Free Accessibility (BFA) Upgrading Programme (2007-2011) is set up to support upgrading works of existing buildings. A $40 million Accessibility Fund is also allocated to revamp the premier 2-kilometer long pedestrian belt of Orchard Road, to spruce-up the shopping destination with wider public footpath, enhancing the pleasant experience of upgraded accessibility. This dissertation will examine the successfulness of the pedestrian perception and experience in relation to the current Universal Design (UD) Guide. The dissertation will discuss possible development of new strategies to improve the accessibility and usability of Orchard Road pedestrian malls. A field study is undertaken in order to identify the problems encountered by different categories of people along Orchard Road, with regards to the experience of navigating exterior walkway levels. For purpose of this dissertation, the study is confined to the most vibrant strip; from Shaw House and Wheelock Place to OG Orchard Point and Orchard Central as indicated in the map in chapter 3.2, page 27.