HERITAGE CONSERVATION & URBAN MEMORY: TRANSFORMATIONS OF THE BRAS BASAH BUGIS PRECINCT

Abstract

This research aims to analyse the urban transformation of the Bras Basah Bugis (BBB) Precinct and the impact of these changes on the collective urban memory of the area. The study will be carried out in three stages. First, archival studies will be conducted to gain an understanding of the transformation and urban renewal policies of the BBB Precinct, as well as the current heritage conservation practice in the area. The second part of the study aims to understand the social representation and urban memory of the BBB Precinct across three generations of Singaporeans. Last, the effects these transformations and conservation efforts have had on the collective urban memory of the BBB will be analysed. The paper intends to contribute to future conservation practice in Singapore, by providing a holistic understanding of the sociocultural life and memory of the city. This will better inform how the ambience and memory of an area can better be retained.